Ansty’s long-standing May Day celebration returns on Bank Holiday Monday 4th May, running from 1pm to 5pm on the village High Street.
The custom dates back to the late 16th century, when the Arundell family of Wardour Castle encouraged local children to dance around a Maypole – a tradition that has continued in Ansty ever since, pausing only during the Commonwealth years of 1644–1660, when Oliver Cromwell’s government banned music, dancing, and public festivities. The current 50ft Maypole stands on the same site as earlier versions: the last a 98ft pole believed to have been among the tallest in England before it was lost in a storm in 1993.
All are warmly invited to follow the traditional procession and the crowning of the May Queen and her attendant, before gathering around the Maypole to watch the young dancers weave their colourful traditional patterns, As well as the dancing, the afternoon offers a mix of live music, Morris dancers, stalls, a tombola, hot food and a licensed bar, making it a relaxed and much-loved community event.
Proceeds from the day will go towards maintaining the May Day tradition, including future upkeep of the Maypole, as well as supporting Julia’s House and Alzheimer’s Research UK. Further details can be found at anstywiltsparish.gov.uk.
