IF you imagine a world of quaint village fetes when you hear the words morris dancing, then think again.

The streets of York were taken over at the weekend by performers who aimed to prove that there is more style and expression in morris dancing than the stereotype would have us believe.

The 13th Traditional Dance Festival, organised by City of York Council and Ebor Morris, took place on Saturday and Sunday in King's Square, Parliament Street and St Sampson's Square.

The dancers so impressed the crowds that several people asked if they could join the teams at a later date for some beginners classes.

Jonathan Brockbank, bagman or social secretary of Ebor Morris, said the festival was a real success and showcased some of the urban styles of morris dancing as well as the more recognisable Cotswolds style.

Mr Brockbank said: "People love traditional dancing, firstly because it's been done for the past 500 years, secondly because it's a team activity and there's so few of them around these days, and thirdly because it's energetic.

"Most people think that it's an entirely male activity carried out by a group of beards, but it's not, we also have a female group in York, Acorn Morris, and many of the visiting teams were mixed.

"It's something anyone can do as a beginner or progress to a higher level."

For more information phone Mr Brockbank on 01904 659600.

Updated: 10:53 Monday, September 08, 2003