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The name of the side reflects its close links with the town of Otley in West
Yorkshire, where most of the side live and where our weekly practices are
held. The "Wharfedale"
part of the name not only refers to the beautiful Dale in which Otley lies,
but also is a reference to Otley's industrial past. In the 19th century Otley
produced one of the most famous printing presses, the "Wharfedale Press".
The other part of the side name refers to a printer's festival, a "Wayzgoose",
a celebration which has been traced back to the seventeenth century. The annual
festival
was celebrated on St. Bartholomew's eve, 24th August when the master printer
would supply a feast for his printers. In later years the feast was replaced
by an outing,
either to the coast or a large picnic in the countryside where good food
and good ale were enjoyed in great quantity.
So put it all together and you get a side that is very proud of living and
dancing in Otley. The side has had a lot of support over the years from
the Town Council, local
landlords - especially at the Manor House, the Bowling Green, Bay Horse and
the Junction), local churches and other local groups. We have provided
workshops
for youth
groups,
supported
good causes and
been constant promoters of the wonders of Otley on our many trips throughout
England.
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