Another sunny success for Littleborough Rushbearing Festival

Organisers of the Littleborough Rushbearing Festival celebrated another successful event this year, which drew crowds from around the borough.

Zoe Attwood, the new chair of LEAF (Littleborough Events and Activities Forum), was delighted not only with the fine weather but also with the community's response and the crowds that gathered at Hare Hill Park.

Rushbearing is an ancient festival dating back to the Middle Ages when rushes were collected and spread on the earthen floors of parish churches. By the 19th century, churches had stone-flagged floors, leading to the decline of rushbearing. However, the tradition was revived, particularly in northern England, including Littleborough.

 

 

The rushbearing event began early on Saturday 20 July at the King Bill pub in Shore, where the rushcart was blessed. The cart was then pulled along a one-mile route to the centre of Littleborough, accompanied by the town's new MP, Paul Waugh, councillors, Morris dancers, and folk musicians.

After a "rest" period in Littleborough square, the rush cart was pulled again back up Hare Hill Road into Hare Hill Park. The park was full of stalls run by local groups and businesses, PAWS held a very successful dog show, Skylight Circus had a circus skill stand and Littleborough Band played some tunes in the band stand.

A succession of Morris dancing "sides" (groups) performed throughout the afternoon and the park was full of the sound of accordions, concertinas and mandolins.

 

 

Zoe said: "I would like to thank the dozens of volunteers whose help only makes this event possible, including my fantastic colleagues on the LEAF committee. But most of all I would like to thank the Littleborough - and wider - community for supporting this enjoyable annual tradition. Thanks also to Rochdale Council and our local councillors for their support."

LEAF organise events in Littleborough throughout the year including the Rushbearing, Food Festival and Christmas Lights Switching on, which is going to be on Saturday 30 November.