Dalton Medieval Fayre
Last updated at 10:33, Monday, 07 June 2010
THOUSANDS of people lined the sunny streets of Dalton to celebrate the Medieval Charter Fayre.
Townsfolk gathered at the United Reformed Church on Market Street as the town crier read from the ancient town charter – a tradition that dates back centuries.
It was then left for the Mayor of Dalton, Councillor Martin McLeavy, to welcome everybody to the fifth annual event.
As sellers busily finished setting up their stalls, families wandered round the ancient capital of Furness yesterday.
Medieval flags and banners hung proudly throughout Market Street, right up to Tudor Square where a court jester was busy entertaining children.
Children, dressed in medieval fancy dress, were enjoying the sunshine and many different stalls.
Colin and Sharon Tate, 31 and 33, were at the event with nine-month-old son, Alfie.
Mr Tate said: “It is a unique event.
“I don’t know anywhere else that does this.
“The weather is perfect. It’s great for community spirit.”
Eleven-year-old George Romney pupil, Anna Merrell, was officially crowned the new Dalton Charter Princess.
After her ceremony, she said: “It is really exciting. I’m really looking forward to representing Dalton this year.”
Proud mum, Helen Merrell, was watching on as her daughter received her crown and sash.
She said: “She looks lovely and it is a lovely day. I’m sure she will represent the town well.”
As well as the crowning of the Charter Princess, the official Ale Tasters Report was delivered, with the Masons Arms winning this year’s award. Daniel Vandome was also sworn in as the town’s official ale taster for the coming year.
Cllr McLeavy was delighted with the big turn out of people.
He said: “It has been a fantastic turn out, there are lots of people here. This is exactly the sort of event we want in the town. Its a cracking day for Dalton, and it’s the first event of the year – we couldn’t have asked for a better start.”
Cllr McLeavy also wished to thank all those who played a part in organising the event, and in particular Val Robinson, chairwoman of the Dalton Traders’ Association, who is stepping down from her post.
Alan Brown, Dalton Town Crier, in his ninth year in the role, summed up the day’s events.
He said: “People forget the past and this sort of occasion helps to bring it back – Dalton is the ancient capital of Furness after all.”
First published at 13:27, Tuesday, 01 June 2010
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
Have your say
Be the first to comment on this article!
Make your comment