Dancing in the street

The centre of Wimborne was clogged on Saturday – but not with cars.

Crowds lined the pavements and spilled onto the road.  The Militia muskets thundered and the spectacle began. 

With the backdrop of the historic minster, spectators watched enthralled as the annual folk festival procession snaked through the town in a riot of colour.

Musicians and dancers gave their all amidst white hankies flying, drums drumming, sticks thwacking and bells jangling. 

The sun kept everyone smiling, but some of the dancers seemed to visibly melt as they turned the corner into the Square.

Founded in 1980, Wimborne Folk Festival is the biggest annual gathering in the town and regarded nationally as one of the largest events of its kind in the country.

The festival continues throughout the weekend.