The May Queen and May King, and the crowning ceremony
The annual May Day celebrations - the May Queen and May King, the crowning ceremony, and the tradition that has shaped village life for generations.
This article is being prepared from original research by Rosemary Arnold and will be added shortly.
May Day, about 1981
The May Day procession, about 1981, led by the May King, Daryl Grant, and the May Queen, Lucy Arnold. On the right is Ethel Smith, who ran the Sunday school and the May Day parade. Photograph shared by Della Paviour.The May King and Queen with their attendants, in flower garlands and carrying posies, on the same day. Photograph shared by Della Paviour.The May King and Queen and their attendants with the May garland, a tall frame covered in spring flowers with a doll at its foot. Photograph shared by Della Paviour.Children with their posies and the May garland, early 1980s. It may be the same year or another. Photograph shared by Della Paviour.
May Day was a highlight of the year for generations of Somerton children. Former pupils remembering the 1930s and 40s described going round every farm in the village, the Miss Emberlins hiding pennies in the wall at Manor Farm for them to find, maypole dancing in the school yard and a May Day tea; see School Days. Ethel Smith, who ran the parade, is remembered on Fondly Remembered.
Share a memory or correction
Did you grow up in Somerton, or does this article bring back a memory? Do you spot something that needs correcting or adding? Rosemary Arnold and Della Paviour would love to hear from you.
