Knutsford Royal May Day moves to avoid clashing with Coronation

A decision to move this traditional event for the first time in its history was made after the announcement that King Charles III will be crowned at Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6, next year.

The Coronation comes eight months after the monarch’s accession and death of the Queen.

The town’s much-loved pageant is likely to be moved to the following Saturday, May 13, but this has not yet been confirmed.

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Lily-May Newall crowned may queen at Knutsford Royal May Day this year Picture: Andy Warman (Image: Andy Warman)

Festival secretary Eileen Podmore, who has been involved in the event for 45 years, said: “Royal May Day definitely won’t be on Coronation Day.

“We have always held it on the first Saturday in May, except the year it received royal patronage.”

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

The historic event dates back to 1864 (Image: Newsquest staff)

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

This year’s celebration has been hailed the best ever as thousands lined the streets.

Crowds welcomed the return of the parade for the first time in two years after being cancelled during the pandemic.

Crowds filled the streets to see the return of Knutsford Royal May Day after being cancelled for two years due to the pandemic (Image: Newsquest staff)

“It was the most wonderful year I remember for a long time,” said Eileen.

“Because of the pandemic, everyone was so happy to see it back.

“The weather was good and there was such a wonderful atmosphere in the town, you could feel it.

Fun and laughter as 600 children in colourful costumes parade through the streets (Image: Newsquest staff)

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

Staging the event, which sees 600 children process in colourful costumes, is a mammoth undertaking for a small team of enthusiastic volunteers.

Cheshire Wheelmen ride antique bikes along the quaint streets (Image: Newsquest staff)

Soaring costs of around £35,000 pose a daunting challenge.

“Traffic management alone is over £10,000, “ said Eileen.

“As we are on the A50 near the motorway, we have to have road closures and people on every junction.

Loud cheers and rapturous applause greeted the Cheshire Wheelmen on their antique bikes (Image: Newsquest staff)

“Our insurance bill is also tremendous as we have to be covered for everything.”

A fresh appeal is being made to the local community for ongoing support in the months ahead.

“If people want May Day to continue, we need help, not just on the day, but from January,” said Eileen.

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

“With all the expenses we are facing, we can’t continue to lose money, year after year.

“If we’re not careful, in the next few years, it could disappear.

“If people have ideas of ways they can help us, we would appreciate it.

Cowboys step out in style Picture: Andy Easthope (Image: Andy Easthope)

“We are also appealing to businesses. We are looking for a sponsor for the crown. We have one made each year for the queen.

“We also need sponsorship for the grandstand as, without this, there would be no sense of occasion.”

Nannies push prams through the streets (Image: Newsquest staff)

Fundraising events including a fashion show and bingo are already being planned for the new year.

Any individuals, families or businesses wishing to offer help and support can email Eileen ee.podmore@ntlworld.com or Knutsford Royal May Day on Facebook.