COLOURFUL HATS and clogs filled the streets of Saddleworth as Morris Men and hundreds of spectators turned out in force for the annual Rushcart Festival.
Around 20 sides from across the country and abroad joined the Saddleworth Morris Men to unveil the Rushcart in Uppermill before processing around the villages.
On top of the magnificent cart, which is stacked five metres high with fresh rushes, sat this year’s ‘jockey’ Saddleworth team treasurer, Mark Atherton.
More than 400 people attended a special Rushcart service St Chad’s Church, conducted by Rev Duncan Rhodes, followed by games and dancing at the Cross Keys and Church Inn.
And the Adelaide Morris Men received a very special welcome as they made a 10,000-mile journey from down under.
They brought a letter of good wishes from Allan Aughey, Mayor of Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council, which includes the township of Saddleworth.
The Mayor wrote: “As a sister city of your town we are happy to engage with this historic ceremony which was revived in 1975 and has grown to become a part of your community festival calendar.
“We encourage everyone to visit our Saddleworth when the opportunity presents – you would be made most welcome.”
Cllr Neil Allsopp, chair of Saddleworth Parish Council, presented a specially engraved plaque to Paul Howard, the squire of Adelaide Morris men to take to the Mayor.
He said: “Twenty years ago, Morris Men from Australia taking part in our Rushcart festival would have been laughed at – yet today it’s a reality.
“They’ve received a gradley Yorkshire welcome, enjoyed the finest ales and consumed generous portions of our delicious local produce – but most of all, experienced the warmth of our Yorkshire hospitality.
“I was honoured to receive a letter of greeting and hope they all enjoyed a fantastic weekend, keeping another of our local traditions alive.
“These events contribute so much to the life of Saddleworth and reinforce the very special nature of this wonderful place we all call home.”
Ed Worrall, the newly-elected squire of Saddleworth Morris Men, said: “It’s been a tremendous festival.”
To find out more about the Saddleworth Morris Men, visit their website: www.saddleworthmorrismen.co.uk or email: saddleworthmorris@gmail.com
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