WHAT gives the current High Bailiff the right to alter hundreds of years of tradition by moving the Mop Fair from the first Tuesday in October?
When this happened last time, it was put down to a mistake in ''ordering'' the fair from Kimberley's but this time it seems there's no excuse.
Also, it was implied in your report of July 31 that the Mop was ''now to expand to take place over two days'' - this has been the case for as long as I and my parents can remember.
One of the quirks of the mop is its official opening on the Tuesday night rather than the Monday night before because tradition dictates the first Tuesday is the official Mop night, and so too does the town's charter.
Presumably, the High Bailiff has changed the opening ceremony to the Monday night too?
What a shame the people trusted to continue the traditions of the town see fit to alter things at a whim.
As someone born 31 years ago on a Mop Tuesday, I've always attended and enjoyed the unique atmosphere.
Sadly, this year I'll be out of the country as I'd organised my holiday a week later trusting the Court Leet to get things right this time.
And my friend returning from working abroad will also miss out, so personal traditions spoilt too.
The next time October 1 falls on a Tuesday is 2013 so Court Leet, you have 11 years to get it right and uphold the traditions, not meddle with them.
Gary Woodward
via e-mail
Unfortunately, your report of July 31 on Alcester Mop is somewhat
inaccurate.
Alcester Mop will not be breaking with tradition this year.
The rule which has been in force for many years is that Alcester Mop falls on the Tuesday following the first Monday in October, which this year is Tuesday, October 8.
Also, Alcester Mop has always been open for two days.
Although the official opening is the Tuesday, generations of children have been there to enjoy all the fun of the fair on Monday as well.
I should be grateful if you would put the matter straight.
Alan Godfrey
Alcester & District
Local History Society
via e-mail
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