A TEAM of morris dancers continued four centuries of tradition when they danced in the May in Southampton today.

The break of day on the first of the month was celebrated at the Bargate. The historic building was opened up for the occasion by the city council.

Southampton-based King John's Morris performed the ritual dances that heralded the advent of summer from 5am.

But for their exertions at such an ungodly hour they received less than they did 400 years ago when a grateful mayor paid the dancers the then handsome sum of three shillings and four pence.

In the 21st century, the dancers had to content themselves with breakfast at a local pub.

Choristers from the city's King Edward VI School also joined in. They climbed to the top of the Bargate to add a musical dimension to the event.