BRFM Could the Zulu’s return to Sheppey?
Written by karen on 13 September 2017
Could the Sheppey Zulu’s be making a return?
A group that were a traditional attraction at many Sheppey public based events could make a return despite previously disbanding amid claims of racism & increasing red-tape.
They are one of the Isle of Sheppey’s longest running traditions, collecting thousands of pounds for many good causes & charities over the years, but their last public appearance was in 2015.
The Zulus’ demise made national headlines after people took to social media to question whether what they did was appropriate in the 21st Century.
But now they could be set to make a comeback as a new organiser looks to re-establish the group.
Maggie Bowry of Minster has put together a new team to reform the controversial tribe of cannibal warriors.
The men would scare youngsters on carnival day by running riot, shaking their spears, waving their shields and surprising people.
For more than 68 years they raised thousands of pounds for charity but two years ago they were forced to hang up their spears after organisers admitted defeat.
The Sheppey Zulu’s were a regular tradition in both the Sheerness & Leysdown summer carnivals. As visitors drove into Leysdown on carnival day, they would be greeted by the Zulu’s, shaking their collection buckets. The Sheppey Zulu’s were also regular visitors to the BRFM Roadshow during Carnival day to mess-around with the presenters.
The group, who amongst their costumes wore fuzzy wigs and grass skirts, blamed its demise on health and safety regulations and problems getting new members after it was accused of being racist on Facebook and Twitter.
But now Mrs Bowry, of Noreen Avenue, Minster, has used the power of social media to breathe life into one of Sheppey’s oldest traditions.
She organised a meeting at Masters House, Sheerness, on Friday, testing the water via Facebook, and has already enlisted seven members.
She said: “My granddaughter took part in this year’s Sheppey summer carnival in Sheerness but the one thing missing was the Zulus.
“They are part of the Island’s heritage. I thought it was a crying shame when they disbanded, the build-up to the carnival was phenomenal as they banged their drum while taking part in a beach landing.
She added: “I hope with new blood and my enthusiasm the Zulus can return, I know some people think they are racist but they aren’t.
Chris Foulds, who runs Masters House in Trinity Road and is chairman of Sheerness Enhancement Association for Leisure (SEAL) has agreed to help set up the group and tried to help them when they disbanded.
He grew up remembering the atmosphere created by the group on carnival days.
He said: “We want to see what support there is out there. We don’t want a few keyboard warriors to spoil the fun for the majority.”
The new organisation will be set up as an independent charity or not-for-profit community organisation so it can raise money for different causes.
To apply to be a Zulu, call Maggie on 07783 130447 or visit the Facebook page Sheppey Zulus and take part in the poll to gauge support.
Also, listen to BRFM this Friday Morning from 10am as Chris Foulds joins Peter Finch in the studio to chat about the return of Sheppey Zulus and how the public can get involved in making the return of the Sheppey tradition a success.
Reader's opinions
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Terry Hawkins On 13 September 2017 at 19:16
Yes they are part of Sheppey
Andy O'Neill On 13 September 2017 at 19:49
There part of sheppey’s history.
Bring them back
Carole Clymer On 13 September 2017 at 21:05
I do hope so
Craig McKinnon On 14 September 2017 at 00:57
Every time this film comes on TV I never miss it but the sheppy Zulus there would be no sheppy
Jackie Presneill On 15 September 2017 at 07:41
Zak Evans ?
Noel Wallace On 15 September 2017 at 10:46
Will they be bringing back the burning of witches as well? That’s another quaint of custom after all.
Tracy Topsom On 15 September 2017 at 10:51
Tracy Topsom On 15 September 2017 at 10:51
No I hope not I value my life at the mo. Lol
Trudy Parrish On 15 September 2017 at 11:19
Bring back the Zulus!
Luke Hughes On 15 September 2017 at 16:05
Rob Hope
Rob Hope On 15 September 2017 at 16:10
Yes that me wow x
Luke Hughes On 15 September 2017 at 16:14
Thought it was
Bev Holman On 16 September 2017 at 08:42
When I first came to Sheppey 20 years ago, husband and I were accosted by Zulus on our first outing into town. We had no idea who they were or what they were doing. Scary, intimidating moments. Sure intentions are good, but don’t bring them back.
Lynn Scott On 16 September 2017 at 15:17
Spoil sport
Li Vinall On 16 September 2017 at 22:04
I wont tha rite to be racist becoz it’s part of my histry
Chris Thomas On 17 September 2017 at 00:03
They’re annoying, in your face, rude and vile! Not something I want in my home town to be honest
Brandon Longworth ジ On 17 September 2017 at 12:05
Going to sound really Anal, but the Zulu’s were never cannibals & they never painted their faces..misrepresentation of a great tribe.