Rowell Fair launched with annual proclamation

A town fair which dates back to medieval times has officially begun after its annual proclamation ceremony.

The Rowell Fair in Rothwell, Northamptonshire, is thought to have been taking place since 1204 when the town celebrated being granted the right to hold a market.

The tradition sees a bailiff to the Lord of the Manor parade through the town reading an ancient charter on horseback.

Some attendees also take part in playful scuffles and drink rum and milk, while pubs open at 06:00 BST.

People take part in the play-fights in an attempt to "disarm" those taking the roles of halberdiers - or guards of the baliff.

For the first time, participants in the mock scuffle were required to sign an insurance disclaimer.

Frank York, who was acting as bailiff to the Lord of the Manor for an eighth time, said the added red tape did not impact the event.

"Everyone wants to keep the tradition," he said. "It [the need for a disclaimer] was forced upon us by our insurers. Everyone wants to keep this great tradition going."

Mr York added that this year's scuffles passed by without incident, adding organisers "didn't need to open a plaster package".

Following the proclamation, a fair featuring rides, street entertainment, live bands, exhibitors and food will be held in the town until Saturday.

According to the Rowell Fair Society, the event can be traced as far back as 1154 and it was granted a charter by King John 50 years later.

The proclamation was read by the bailiff at six locations and dates back to the reign of King James I in 1614.

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