A MORRIS dancing group who were blocked from leading this year's Lichfield Bower after have hit back at suggestions they were "disruptive".
Three Spires Morris had previously been front and centre of the annual tradition, but were noticeably absent this time around.
Organisers said the decision had been taken to replace them over concerns they had previously delayed the procession.
Explaining the change, Bower bosses said:
"Last year and in the previous Bower, the Morris dancers delayed the procession by not following the directions of the chief marshall.
"In 2025 this was particularly disruptive.
"While we appreciate the contribution of Three Spires in recent years, we could not allow this to continue.
"The Morris is an integral part of the Bower procession, but we cannot allow it to detract from the smooth running of the procession as a whole."
But Madeline Gorman, Squire of Three Spires Morris, said the comments from the Bower organisers had come as a surprise.
She said:
"Three Spires Morris are very saddened and concerned to see the comments the Bower organisers have made about the side.
"We are concerned the issues raised have never been brought to the attention of the side before.
"The side has never received any formal complaints concerning our attendance and behaviour at any previous Bower processions – and particularly none with regard to our attendance in 2024 and 2025.
"Had the organisers raised their concerns we would have been happy to work with them and continue to be happy to work with them, to resolve these matters.
"We are proud to be a Lichfield Morris side and proud to help celebrate our city’s traditions. Our aim as a side is always to promote the good name of Lichfield – as we are sure is the aim of the Bower organisers."
