Traditional May Day Crowning custom is kept alive
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The traditional event started with a procession through Alexandra Park to the Bandstand for music, Morris dancing and Maypole dancing.
Hannah’s Cat Morris led children in dancing the locally collected Hooe Ribbon Dance.
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Hide AdCerys Rogers, whose family has links with the Pageant since the 1970’s, was crowned as May Queen by Hastings Mayor Judy Rogers. Cerys was presented with the traditional silver shilling for her services to the town.
The festival, which is organised by local chimney sweep Barry Jones, has also revived the almost forgotten custom, May Garlands, which used to see children taking out a Garland to welcome in the warmer days.
Bryony Leech set up a competition, with prizes, for children, families, schools and any group to “shew their Garland” and their were some colourful creations featured at Sunday’s event.
Other attractions on the day included Holly Clamp’s Fiddle Choir, Roses Are Red, young folk dancers and a Punch and Judy Show.
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Hide AdAttending the event was 80 year old Doris Jackson who danced at the 1942, 43 and 44 May Queen crownings.
The organisers would like to thank Hastings Borough Council. sound engineer Ian Dobson, the Eat@ Cafe, Sussex Bunting, and Karen at Fantasy Face Painting.
Donations on the day went to the Alexandra Park Greenhouse Appeal.
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