YOUNG and old came out in droves to enjoy the traditional mop fair in Alcester this week.
With traditional games, like hook-a-duck, funfair rides and sweet treats on offer, the fair organised by the Alcester Court Leet came to the town on Monday and Tuesday.
Ian Whitehead, High Balliff of Alcester Court Leet, said: “We were very lucky with the weather this year and the fair was very well attended. It’s a great mix of the modern and traditional and something we always enjoy.”
Historically, the fair was held to hire farm hands when people would parade before the landowners who were looking for extra workers.
After being hired, workers would spend the rest of the day at the fair as a holiday. A maid would carry a mop to show the sort of work she was after hence the event was known as the ‘Mop Fair’.
These days mops have been swapped for music and candy floss with scary fun rides providing the thrills for fair goers as the streets are filled with families having a good time.
Mayor of Alcester, Yvette Morrison, added: “Alcester always welcomes the mop to the town. It is always great fun for everyone involved and is something everyone looks forward to, both young and old.”
