History

Wimberry Clog came about as a result of the wives and friends of the Forest of Dean Morris men wanting to do some form of related traditional dance. They knew that anything remotely 'morris' would be frowned upon - so in about 1979/80 Wimberry was formed. By taking the opportunity of clog workshops up and down the country, they began to gather a collection of dances, and to be able to pass them on as the group grew.

They were fortunate that from the very beginning they had a strong bond with and the support of the Forest Morris, and the Morris musicians were happy to play for them. This is the situation to this day.

It has always been important to maintain the tradition of clog dance, which exists as part of the area's mining past. Over the years, they have organised teaching workshops, given displays for groups, such as scouts, guides, schools, W.I.'s, gardening clubs, danced at barn dances, twinning events, and even at a People's Pageant in Gloucester Cathedral.

Over the years, the group have enjoyed taking part in Festivals - Gateshead Garden Festival, Tredegar House, Upton on Severn Festival, Builth Wells, the Forest Morris Family Weekend. They have been a regular part of the entertainment at the Newent Onion Fayre for the last 20yrs, 2008 saw a highlight, when they were invited to join the Forest Morris for the 'Fetes des Fleurs d'Ajoncs' (Festival of the Gorse), in Pont Aven in Brittany. It was a thrill to take part in the colourful procession, and dance in the town, as part of the programme - and fly the flag for British tradition.

The group have enthusiasm and commitment, and enjoyment of the dance. The programme of dances is growing and they are fortunate to have very committed musicians, who take a real interest in finding the best tunes to fit the dances. The group could not do what they do without them.

In the mean time, the group will continue to collect and perform dances from around the country, and develop the local tradition of what the Forest of Dean miners called 'step dancing'. There are several items in the archives giving history of miners and gypsy dancers, and clog competitions, which took place from the mid 19th and early 20th century.