Knutsford Royal Mayqueen 2000

Knutsford 'Royal' Mayqueen 2001

Knutsford Royal May Day is the highlight of the town’s calendar and takes place this year on Saturday 7th May. The procession through the town and the crowning of the May Queen began in 1864 by the Vicar of Knutsford, the Rev. Robert Clowes. The prefix “Royal” was bestowed on the event in 1887 by the Prince and Princess of Wales and Knutsford remains exceedingly proud of its Royal title.

The ancient tradition of sanding takes place on the morning of May Day when the pavements of the town are decorated with mottoes and patterns in honour of the “Royal” day.

Visitors and townsfolk alike take delight in recognising such personalities as the Town Crier, Jack-in-the-Green, Highwayman Higgins, Robin Hood and Grace Darling. Flanked by the “Royal May Day Footguards, four landaus carry the “Royal” May Queen, Ladies in Waiting, Crown Bearer, Sceptre Bearer, Sword Bearer, Falcon Bearer and Maids of Honour, as well as the Lord Chamberlain and his Judge.

The procession sets off from Marshall’s Yard at 2pm and is joined by the May Queen and her court at the Sessions House in Toft Road.

Hundreds of characters and decorated lorries then make their way along the streets of Knutsford to the Heath where there is dancing and the crowning ceremony takes place.

Visit http://www.knutsford-royal-mayday.co.uk for further information.