GALLERY: St Wilfrid’s Procession brings thousands to Ripon’s streets

Arrival at a Ripon Cathedral bathed in early-evening sunshine, signalled the conclusion of  the 2023 St Wilfrid’s Procession.

It was the end of a 7.5 mile journey along residential streets and into the city centre, where thousands of people had gathered.

For the actor playing the part of the city’s patron saint and Colin the 19-year-old Cob Cross Clydesdale, there was a guard of honour provided by Ripon City Morris Dancers, as horse and rider approached the iconic building in time for a service of celebration.

Prior to that the rousing music of Ripon City Band (pictured above) resounded on Kirkgate as the procession made up of decorated floats and people in fancy dress carefully navigated the ancient street.

There was a carnival atmosphere throughout the day as crowds lined the streets to watch the parade go by and gathered in the Market Square for a Saturday afternoon of free family-focused activities and entertainment organised by the volunteers of the St Wilfrid’s Procession Committee.

Time to celebrate for these members of the procession

Among the musical entertainers were the One For All Choir, who performed to a large crowd in front of Ripon Town Hall.

Also singing and dancing throughout  the day, were those who circled the city streets on the 20 decorated floats that took part in the procession.

The floats came with many imaginative themes and designs from superheroes, to one inspired by the TV comedy series Last of the Summer Wine.

 

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Historic Hampsthwaite village celebration set for return

It was first established by Royal Charter in 1304 and has been enjoyed by villagers ever since.

Now, following a two-year break due to the pandemic, the Hampsthwaite Feast and show is returning this weekend.

This year the event, which is organised by volunteers for residents in the village, will start on Friday evening, kicking off with children’s races.

Saturday will include a pet show and a new and improved Hampsthwaite Run, which has been opened up to competitors from outside the village.

The Hampsthwaite Feast Show will take place in the memorial hall and the traditional feast fancy dress parade is also back, accompanied by Tewit Youth Band. This year’s theme is ‘Children’s TV – past and present’.

The event, which is aimed at emphasising the village’s “wonderful community spirit”, will finish with fireworks on Saturday night.

Feast secretary Vicki Dixon said:

“We are really thrilled it’s coming back this year. Last year we had a smaller event, but we weren’t able to do more than that. So we are really looking forward to celebrating as a village again.”

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