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The Medieval Fayre of St.Bartholomew
Mary Hunter
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The Medieval Fayre of St.Bartholomew
Location: Northumberland
The pageant day dawned fair and bright.
As expected the Lifeboat tractor and trailer arrived on the dot to transport our stall, down to the boatpark.
The park seemed strangely empty, the cobles already moved as today the fishermen were kindly allowing us to use the boatpark as a medieval market place.
Already there was an air of bustle, which like Topsy just 'grew and grew' as the morning progressed. Eventually wherever one looked there seemed to be someone setting up a stall, playing quoits or showing off a quiver of arrows. As the time approached for the afternoon activities it was definitely 'standing room only'.
The coble carrying 'King John' arrived at the shore where it was met by the royal entourage, who then escorted the king from the beach to his viewing stand, all the while engulfed by cheers from the waiting crowds.
A short prayer of thanks by the royal chaplain for the safe arrival of his majesty preceded a colourful pageant.
St.Andrew's chapel choir gave a short recital of original work, then performances by musicians and dancers was followed by a royal progress through the town.
This progress included, among many other items of note,
a presentation of scrolls to children who had achieved excellence in artwork, and the viewing of a stunning exhibition of kite flying, brought to the town for the weekend courtesy of Wansbeck District Council.
The day culminated in the award of the charter by his majesty to the village of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea.
A wonderful time was had by all, resident and visitor alike, and now we all look forward to an even more notable event next year.
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