May day folk traditions - Padstow Old ’Oss and Torrington May fair

May day was originally a pagan celebration! In parts of England they have preserved the old pagan customs to this day! This documentary was filmed over the first four days of May 2019 in Padstow, Cornwall and Great Torrington, Devon. These two West-country towns have each preserved their own distinct May celebrations with rituals dating back to pagan times. In Padstow the event is centred around the hobby horse which they refer to as the “Old Oss“, whereas in Torrington the Mayfair involves electing a May queen who is sits on a throne beneath the Maypole in the town square. This is a charming insight into the culture of rural England and a way of life that is sadly lost for most British people. This channel depends on your support: Patreon: SubscribeStar: Telegram: Crypto: 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Padstow, Cornwall 13:48 Torrington, Devon 21:21 round the tree race 21:58 parade