Hundreds of Morris dancers will fill the streets of Sheringham as a popular festival returns for the first time in three years.

The Potty Morris and Folk Festival - held for the last time in 2019 due to the pandemic - will see 42 Morris dancing groups called 'sides' flock to the town from across England over the July 2-3 weekend.

Brian Antuar, festival chairman, said they aimed to put on a spectacle for locals and visitors alike.

Mr Antuar said: "It has been an amazing effort by the committee to get the festival up and running after such a long break and I would like to thank each and every one who has been involved no matter how small a part played for it all adds up to putting on a great event.

Eastern Daily Press: Sutton Masque Morris dancers entertain the crowds at a previous Sheringham's Potty Morris and Folk Festival.Sutton Masque Morris dancers entertain the crowds at a previous Sheringham's Potty Morris and Folk Festival. (Image: Archant)

"I would also like to thank the people of Sheringham for their support as without them to watch, the festival would be a very empty thing."

Saturday will be the festival's biggest day, with a street procession starting at 10am on the Esplanade and heading to the High Street, where the dancers will be met by Sheringham's mayor, Peter Ratcliffe.

The Holt Ridge Morris side - of which Mr Antuar is 'squire' - will lead this year's parade.

Also on Saturday there will be music at the Lobster pub from 12 noon to 3pm by Rock the Lobster, and a folk club evening at the Sheringham Community Hub, starting at 8.30pm.

Mr Antuar said anyone was welcome to attend and take part or simply listen.

A new addition to this year's festival will be craft stalls in Wyndham Street, just in front of the Lobster pub.

Eastern Daily Press: Crosskey Clog musicians entertain the crowds at Sheringham's Potty Morris and Folk Festival.Crosskey Clog musicians entertain the crowds at Sheringham's Potty Morris and Folk Festival. (Image: Archant)

Mr Antuar said next year's festival would be even bigger, as the event is due to mark an important milestone.

He said: "2023 will be the 30th anniversary of the Potty Morris and Folk Festival and we have come a long way from the original four sides.

"We are already planning for next year’s festival and we are hoping to include more music events through out the weekend."