Rapper Sword dancing has it's origins in the mining communities of the North East of England.  Five dancers trace intricate patterns while linked by springy steel bands, known as the swords.  Hard-soled shoes beat out the rhythm until the swords, woven into a tightly locked star, are finally held aloft in triumph. The music is usually supplied by a single instrument, such as a fiddle or whistle.

This is the dance style on which our side was founded in 1989 as Ryknild Rapper, and our team have won fame in national competitions. Sadly, Ryknild Rapper is not currently dancing, but with enough members interested in learning, we will restart the tradition!