My Wokingham speaks to Lorraine Pickering who we believe to be the first Morris Dancer in a wheelchair. Lorraine reveals a determination to break down barriers and explains how if she can do it anyone in her position can do the same!
We first pictured Lorraine at Woodley Christmas Extravaganza 2022 carnival as part of her Morris dancing group Borderline Morris . The bright colourful Morris Dancing Group practice in Arborfield Village Hall every Wednesday night with members coming from all over Berkshire and beyond
I caught up with Lorraine 54 from Henley on Thames during a practice session to learrn more about her story see interview here
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The Challenge and Rejection
When asked how it all began, she explained that she saw a Morris Dancing at an event in Sidmouth and really wanted to join in. She approached the Morris Dancers who said they would welcome her. At the same time, she could see that no one else in a wheelchair was taking part and realised she would definitely be the only one. It was not practical for her to join the Sidmouth Group.But the desire remained to become a Morris Dancer
She later attended BunkFest in Wallingford South Oxfordshire and enjoyed the Morris Dancing but again saw not one in a wheelchair. This time she asked various groups about joining
“ I was told it would be a health and safety risk and others just said sorry no it was not possible”
In October 2022 she met Bordeline Morris Reading and they gave a resounding yes to Lorraine becoming part of the group.
She began practicing with the group in Arborfield and found the group extremely helpful and worked around her wheelchair adapting some of the dances.
“ I would explain how I would not be able to do some moves and they would adjust the dance so that I would be able to use my wheels as my legs”
“ I performed at Woodley Christmas Extravaganza and I think am breaking barriers and want to help others like me to join in”
My specialists’ dances include the Black Widow and Dayglo and I love it. Wheelchair users should get out there, never say never. Just because you’re in a wheelchair does not mean you don’t have options. Wheels are legs for me”
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Lorraine who has Multiple Sclerosis and says
“You have to be active, you can’t let an illness define you, If it does get the better of you, rest get better and get back on it
Lorraine works with children reading stories and helps the elderly by having conversations to help conquer loneliness via the charity Help the Aged
Lorraine your’e simply inspiring!
If you’re interested in Joining Bordeline Morris or want to book them for an event check out their website
Website Borderlinemorris.com
Email: jen@borderlinemorris.com.
