Morris dancer completes 11-hour world record attempt

Galya Dimitrova
BBC News
Martin Wackenier A close-up of Duncan Bhaskaran Brown in traditional Morris attire, dancing in the middle of Abingdon during his record-breaking attempt. He is smiling.Martin Wackenier
Duncan Bhaskaran Brown danced in the centre of his home town of Abingdon

A man is hoping he has set a new world record after Morris dancing for more than 11 hours straight.

Duncan Bhaskaran Brown from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, began his solo challenge in traditional Morris attire in the town centre just after 05:00 BST and finished at 16:09 BST.

It amounted to more than 100,000 steps and 6,000 burned calories, which is "equivalent to about seven and a half full English breakfasts", estimated Mr Bhaskaran Brown.

His attempt, which had been officially recognised by Guinness World Records, also raised more than £1,500 for two local charities.

Martin Wackenier Duncan Bhaskaran Brown in traditional Morris attire, dancing in the middle of Abingdon during his record-breaking attempt. He is in a green tent, surrounded by thin cordons. A table with various items and a speaker are placed beside him. His dancing spot is marked by a white rectangle. He is smiling.Martin Wackenier
The Morris dancer said his legs "were really starting to hurt" towards the end of his challenge

Mr Bhaskaran Brown said the event had started "quietly and without fanfare" before ending "in spectacular style", with about 50 fellow dancers joining him for the finale.

The challenge, which featured 186 traditional folk tunes, was observed by independent witnesses to ensure full compliance with Guinness's strict guidelines.

His attempt will undergo final verification before it can be officially entered into the record books.

"It got tough towards the end, my legs were really starting to hurt," he said.

"I know I'm going to feel it tomorrow.

"It was amazing to see all the support today, not just for me but for both the charities we've been supporting."

He said he was pleased to have raised funds for One Planet Abingdon, which fights climate change and promotes sustainability, and the Abingdon and District Volunteer Centre.

"They're both doing amazing work, and some people who've benefited from that work helped out today," he said.