OLD Father Christmas, St George and a doctor are just a few of the characters who will bring cheer with a seasonal visiting Mummers play, to be performed by members of Lodestone Morris dancers next Thursday.

Mummers' plays were a popular visiting custom in Victorian times, from which there is a tentative link to a play performed in Tavistock.

The plays were at their height during that era. They feature a comical pageant of characters and a glimpse of medieval symbolism.

Master Mummer Stephen Newland said: 'We will be performing the short play at a couple of venues.

'Our rendition has a pre-modern Father Christmas and England's patron saint St George.

'As is tradition, the performers will be disguised. In the old days, it was considered "bad luck" to be recognised.'

The play will be performed on Thursday, December 18 at the Royal Oak, Meavy at 7.45pm, the Drake Manor Inn, Buckland Monachorum at 8.15pm and at the Tavy Club, Tavistock at 9.15pm.

On Saturday, December 20, the play as well as some dancing will be performed at Buckland Abbey.

Lodestone Morris is a mixed side of ladies and men. Team squire Mike Pike said: 'We welcome new members and musicians interested in traditional English dance and customs.

'We're a sociable bunch that enjoy the fun, different venues and a good standard of dance.'

The team practises at the Tavy Club in Tavistock on Thursday evenings from 8pm to 10pm and dance out in the summer season at pubs, festivals and local events.

For more information and updates visit http://www.lodestone">www.lodestone morris.co.uk or contact Mike on 01822 855281.