May Day in Newport will see some citizens rising a lot earlier than others.

In keeping with long tradition, the Isca Morrismen will start off a new season of dancing with a day-long tour of various Newport and Monmouthshire venues.

The day begins with a 5.15am performance at Caerleon Amphitheatre and finishes up at Magor Spring Fair.

And whatever the weather decides to do, these festivities will go ahead, says events organiser Les Chittleburgh. "We've been doing it every year and we always have a dozen people who come to watch us," he said.

As well as the start of summer, Isca Morrismen will also be celebrating its 30th birthday in 2006.

The tour will also visit St Woolos Cathedral at 9.45am and The Nag's Head in Usk at 11am.

There are currently nine dancers and several musicians, although they would appreciate new members, says Les. "We welcome any male to dance - the only condition is that they are competent. Females can join too, as musicians."

Les said: "There are 24 in total, with 10 local dances which are unique to the Welsh - English Border. The dances were collected at the start of the 19th century, and are reckoned to be a lot older than that."