Pictures – traditional ceremony kicks off Barnstaple Fair week
The annual Barnstaple Fair proclamation ceremony sees the town delve into its history to continue a tradition that has lasted centuries
The traditional proclamation ceremony returned to Barnstaple on Wednesday (September 16) to mark the start of Fair Week.
Barnstaple Fair is thought to be more than 1,000 years old and each September Barnstaple Town Council honours the old traditions by hosting the annual Fair Proclamation and opening ceremony at the town Guildhall.
As ever, the white glove symbolising friendship was suspended from the Guildhall upper floors, which hosted the ceremony, presided over by the Mayor and councillors as well as representatives of the Showmen’s Guild and leading representatives from the business community.
Guests were offered samples of Barnstaple sweet ‘fairings’ (a kind of biscuit) and a glass of spiced ale brewed locally by the Chief Beadle from a secret recipe passed down from his predecessor.
Following speeches, the Mayor, councillors and dignitaries formed a procession outside while town clerk Rob Ward read out the fair proclamation and then at points along the way as the procession set off along the High Street.
Following lunch, councillors, dignitaries and guests all headed off to the fair.
The fairground at Seven Brethren Car Park, next to Tarka Leisure Centre, will be open again tonight (Friday, September 18) and runs until tomorrow night, with Saturday also seeing the annual Barnstaple Carnival, with the main procession at 6pm and entertainment along the Strand and Square throughout the afternoon.