New date confirmed for Knutsford Royal May Day 2023

The town’s traditional event, which sees thousands of spectators line the streets, will be moved for the first time in its history next year.

The much-loved pageant will be held on Saturday, May 13, the week after King Charles III will be crowned at Westminister Abbey.

May Queen Lily chats and laughs with her ladies in waiting as the Royal May Day procession processes through the streets of Knutsford (Image: Newsquest)

The colourful procession has always taken place on the first Saturday in May.

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The historic celebration dates back to 1864 and is the only one of its kind in the country.

The royal prefix was granted by the Prince and Princess of Wales on a visit to Tatton.

Comic capers as children dress up as clowns and animals (Image: Newsquest)

Plans are already under way for the 2023 celebration.

Festival secretary Eileen Podmore, who has been involved in the event for 45 years, said: “We are looking for a sponsor for the crown.

“It is going to be really special.

Lily-May Newall, Knutsford May Queen 2022 (Image: Andy Warman)

“We have one made each year for the queen.

“Perhaps a few businesses may wish to come together to pay for it.

“I’m sure next year’s May Day will be extra special with the Coronation taking place.”

Cheshire Wheelmen ride their antique bikes through the quaint streets (Image: Newsquest)

Jeweller Tara Kirkpatrick of Clarity Contemporary Jewellery, of King Street, Knutsford, will be hand crafting the crown.

The biggest challenge facing the festival team is funding the event, with costs expected to rise to more than £35,000 next year.

With no income during the pandemic, it’s a major challenge.

Nannies pushing prams among 600 children taking part in the procession depicting different characters through history (Image: Newsquest)

“We didn’t have a May Day for two years but still had to pay bills for storage and insurance,” said Eileen.

“Our biggest expense is traffic management which costs around £10,000. It is an enormous bill but it’s something we have to pay for.”

Cheers and rapturous applause greet Cheshire Wheelmen as they ride Penny Farthings through the streets of Knutsford (Image: Newsquest)

A fashion show and Irish night with bingo are planned for next year.

The small team of volunteers who organise the festival is looking for more help.

A fresh appeal is being made to the local community for support.

Children start taking part in Knutsford Royal May Day from the age of five (Image: Andy Easthope)

“It is a big commitment,” said Eileen. “It’s not just about turning up on the day. People don’t realise what goes on behind the scenes.

“This year was the most wonderful I remember for a long time.

“There was a great atmosphere in the town, you could feel it.

“Everyone was enjoying themselves. Children were jumping around with joy.

“It is a privilege to keep this tradition going.

“Generations of families have taken part. Children often tell me that their father or grandfather wore the costume we give them.”

Excitement is already mounting among 600 children who will process through the streets.

Dates have been fixed for the selection of characters.

The May Queen and ladies of the court will be chosen at St John’s Church at 7pm on Thursday, February 2.

The characters will be assigned on Saturday, March 4, from 12 noon until 2pm.

Any individuals, families, groups of friends or businesses wishing to offer help and support can email Eileeen at eepodmore@ntlworld.com or contact Knutsford Royal May Day on Facebook.