LOUD cheers and rapturous applause welcomed the Royal May Day Festival back to Knutsford.
Thousands of spectators lined the streets as the much-loved event returned for the first time in two years after being cancelled during the pandemic.
More than 600 children in colourful costumes waved as they paraded with pride through the town centre.
Bunting and balloons festooned the shops, bars and restaurants and there was a buzz of excitement.
Children chosen to take part in the procession two years ago have been anxiously waiting to dress up.
Lily Nuttall, a pupil at Manor Park Primary School, wore a beautiful cream satin dress, with flowers in her hair, playing the role of a country rose girl.
The seven-year-old said: “I couldn’t sleep, I was so excited.
“This is my first time, I feel a bit nervous.”
Mum Mary and twin sister Katie took part in the festival as children.
Mary said: “We’re both 40 next year and we were in it since we were five.
“We absolutely loved it, it was so exciting.
“We also did the maypole dancing.
“It’s great to see the festival back again after lockdown, getting families together.”
Children enjoyed picnics on the pavement as mums, dads and grandparents chatted and reminisced.
Restaurants and bars spilled out onto the streets with tables and chairs packed with fun and laughter.
This historic event 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.
Eileen Podmore, secretary of Knutsford Royal May Day Festival and involved in the event for 45 years, said: “It is something the town should be proud of.
“It is not a carnival, it is a big celebration that is very community based.”
Julia Chard, owner of Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe in King Street, said: “I am so excited to see Royal May Day return to our fabulous town after two years’ absence.
“I love hearing the children in the sweet shop telling me what character they will be in the procession.
“I was standing in my shop doorway with my flag waving at all who pass by.
“It puts a very big smile on my face and gives me goosebumps.”
May queen Lily-May Newall, 15, said: “I have taken part in May Day since I was five and have been many characters including the lady in the Sedan chair and the Sunday girl.
“I have also taken part in the sword dance, ribbon dance and Maypole dancing.
“I had always dreamt of being May queen but never thought it would happen.
“I would like to thank the committee and everyone who organises the special day.”
The procession ran like clockwork thanks to a team of dedicated volunteers.
A bucket collection helps to ensure the survival of the festival which costs around £35,000.
Barista Mark Lee-Kilgariff, who runs Tatton Perk, said: “What a staggering effort the organising committee puts into organising this day.
“This event costs a fortune to stage so I hope people will be as generous as they can.”
His two daughters Merry, nine, and Aurora, 15, take part in the procession every year and dressed up as a flower seller and lady in waiting this time.
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