On the eve of May Day, we take a nostalgic look back at moments through the years celebrating this ancient tradition that continues to bring communities together.
From Maypole dancing and May Queens to lively Morris dancing, these images—shuffled for your enjoyment—are sure to raise a smile.
Let us know your favourite in the comments below.
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1. Bridgnorth, 1988
Bridgnorth Festival, May 1988. Festival Queen Claire Fullwood (centre) with attendants Hayley Smith (left) and Helen Dodd prepare to lead the town’s carnival procession. | Shropshire Star
2. Weston Lullingfields, 1943
Weston Lullingfields School May Day, 1943. This photograph was shared by Mrs Betty Molyneux, who was known at the time as Betty Hartley. Betty recalls being evacuated from Liverpool to Shropshire in 1941 with her family, eventually settling in Weston Lullingfields. She is pictured here with her brother Alan among the schoolchildren and teachers. She remembers: “I am sitting second from the left. My brother Alan is there too, and our mother marked us with crosses. The teachers included Miss Halfpenny and Miss Rogers.”
3. Madeley, c.1920s
Maypole dancers, Madeley or the local area, c.1920. This charming postcard was published by Bartlam, photographer of Madeley, and comes from the collection of Bridgnorth postcard collector Ray Farlow.
4. Trefonen, 1968
Maypole dancing at Trefonen CofE School in the playground in 1968. | Shropshire Star