IT WAS the first event of its kind, and now the organisers say it is certain to be a staple in the Southampton calendar.

Folk Dance Southampton, which took place in locations from Guildhall Square to the Bargate, saw a variety of teams perform throughout Saturday which coincided with the first weekend of the Southampton Boat Show.

John Connell, 67, a member of one of the groups to take part, the King John’s Morris Men, said both the event and its timing is one he wants to continue well into the future on a yearly basis.

John, who has been performing for 40 years said: “There must have been maybe 110 or 120 people performing at our different locations.

“Our group, who have golden backs, were formed in 1975 and we want to get more people involved. Hopefully we can continue and people well enjoy what we do. We’re always looking for more members, and we practice through winter and spring every Monday at 8pm at St Deny’s community centre.”