Dawn Chorus

It has to be a special reason for the good people of Cambridgeshire to get up before the crack of dawn. And May Day is very special.

Especially if you are one of the traditional morris dancers who are pulling on their bells bright and early every time the first of May arrives.

Dancing the sun up

The Devil's Dyke Morris Men are one such group, or side as they are called. They are a mix of men, women (I've been reliably informed that they don't mind being referred to as "men") and even a youngster.

Based in Newmarket, the Devil's Dyke team dance all across the region, appearing at schools, events and of course every May Day morning at Wandlebury Woods.

It was at 5.30am that violin music called up the sun and then the bells were ringing, feet were moving and accordians were playing as the warm orange glow of the spring sun reared its head from behind the Wandlebury forests.

Morris dancing wasn't the only May Day tradition on show. Early morning presenter Andy Gall was on hand to fulfil a lesser known American ritual.

The parade of the beasts is a yearly event in Minneapolis, Minnesota and to recognise their pursuit Andy donned a full gorilla costume.

Along with the sounds of music, many nature lovers make the early trip to the woods to hear the flittering avian tones of the Dawn Chorus.

You can find out more about Dawn Chorus and the Devil's Dyke Morris Men by using the following links: