2015 was a new year with a difference for The Merrydowners Morris Side from Harrow.

Twenty-five years ago the Merrydowners first performed at the St Alban’s Church, North Harrow June fair. Since that time, they have danced around the world.

January 1, 2014 saw them perform in their 10th London New Year’s Day Parade.

Time for a change perhaps, something and somewhere new in 2015?

So when the opportunity arose to dance in the 2015 Paris New Year’s Day Parade, they grabbed it.

Travelling by car and coach they arrived on December 31, and after an enjoyable New Year’s Eve celebration, New Year’s Day saw them arrive at Place de la Concorde for the start of the parade start at 2pm.

The route taken was up the Champs-Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe and back to La Place de la Concorde; some 4km.

Once they actually got dancing, they took the crowds by storm, getting the public up and involved.

It was a great way to start their 25th year.

Antony Moore

Bagman, Merrydowners Morris Side