It’s that time of year again when we’re all looking forward to the annual May Day celebrations in Rothwell, which are being held as usual on the Pastures on Monday 5 May between 11am and 4pm.
Rothwell has a rich history of its community celebrations. It’s interesting to read about it on LS26.org.uk.
In 1408, King Henry IV (son of John O’Gaunt of Rothwell) decreed that Rothwell should have two fairs per year, one in the month of July. Almost 600 years later, this still happens. May Day celebrations are held every May Day bank holiday and the Rothwell Carnival always takes place on the second Saturday in July.
I’m pleased that again as local councillors we got the chance to help out with funding for Rothwell’s annual May Day festival celebration. The Outer South Area Committee, which I chair, approved £4,398 of funding to enable Rothwell to have its annual summer celebrations. The funds were given to Rothwell & District Carnival Committee who co-ordinate a series of community led celebrations and events in Rothwell throughout the year and these funds are specifically for the May Day Festival, Food and Drink Festival and the Rothwell Carnival.
Times are hard for local people and although budgets are tight, it is really important for the community to come together at these wonderful events. I would like to thank the Rothwell and District Carnival Committee for the wonderful job they do to make these events happen, there is a lot of preparation that goes into making these events go smoothly. Local people always enjoy these events and I know many will enjoy the May Day festival on Monday, which is one of the highlights of our calendar in Rothwell. Thanks should be given to the Rothwell and District Lions who do us proud all year round and not least with the annual duck race at the May Day festival which my daughter always looks forward to as it’s her favourite part!
It’s always great to see Rothwell residents come together at our community events, we were lucky to have fantastic weather last year, fingers crossed it will be lovely this year, and there’s always lots for the children to do, events like these and the community spirit in Rothwell helps give them a sense of local identity and pride in our area. Local people love these events, as they encourage everyone to be involved and play their part, it’s great to see local groups out in force, doing their bit, but there’s something for everyone to do, even if it’s just to relax and enjoy a good day with the family.
I’m really looking forward to the May Day festival, but remember this event happens only because of the tireless hard work of the Carnival Committee and I’m always impressed with their energy and hard work on behalf of the local community.
