A TRADITIONAL Dorset dancing group could be forced to disband if it cannot attract new members.

The Frome Valley Morris team could become the fourth group of Morris dancers in South Dorset to fold in a decade after struggling to attract members over recent years.

The Frome Valley group was set up in 1978 and has been entertaining crowds at events ever since but at its recent annual meeting members were warned next year could be its last in existence.

Squire Simon Hewitt said: “Everywhere we dance we are appreciated and people say how wonderful it is to see the tradition carrying on.

“However, we have got to the position where, unless we get some new dancers, 2011 is probably going to be our last year.”

Mr Hewitt said the dancers are still very much in demand by spectators, but if more people are not willing to get involved in performing their future remains bleak.

He said the West Stafford-based Frome Valley dancers offer a sociable atmosphere and joining does not have to be a major commitment.

He said: “We all have busy lives and it can seem quite a commitment but if you can learn the dances in the practice sessions it’s not about being available for every spot we do in the summer.”

The group practices on Thursday evenings throughout the winter at West Stafford Village Hall from 7.30pm.

Anyone interested in taking part is urged to simply turn up.

For more information call 01305 848885 or visit www.fromevalleymorris.co.uk