Knutsford's Royal May Queen 2002

For all children Christmas and birthdays are the highlight of their year and, for Knutsford children, there is also May Day, with the excitement of dressing up for a part in the colourful procession, perhaps riding on a horse-drawn float, dancing to the applause of the spectators or even playing a starring role in the Queen’s Court.  (Taken from The National Fairground Archives at The University of Sheffield.)

Knutsford “Royal” May Day is the highlight of the town’s calendar and takes place every year on the first Saturday in 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.

In the afternoon a procession through the town brings together over two hundred children, as well as Morris dancers, brass bands and the Cheshire Wheelman on their antique bicycles.

For further information visit http://www.knutsfordmayday.co.uk