England's Calendar of Events | September
Dredging the First Oyster
September 2008
Colchester
With the traditional involvement of civic dignitaries in their full regalia, the time-honoured opening of the oyster-fishing season in the Pyefleet Channel off Mersea Island takes place at the end of summer. The Mayor of the Borough of Colchester, along with the Chief Executive and the Town Serjeant, marks the opening by dredging the first oyster, followed by an oyster lunch on the barge Hydrogen.
The borough's ownership of the oyster banks dates back to the Charter of 1189, and this traditional opening ceremony can be dated back as far as 1540. Also traditional is the sending of a communication to the Queen at Balmoral Castle reading: "According to ancient Custom and Charter dating back to Norman times, the Mayor and Councillors of the Colchester Borough Council will formerly proclaim the Opening of the Colne Oyster Fishery for the coming season and will drink to your Majesty's long life and health and request respectfully to offer to your Majesty their expressions of dutiful loyalty and devotion."
The first dredging, formally witnessed by around 40 guests, is preceded by a gin and gingerbread toast to the Queen and the Chief Executive's reading of the Proclamation - an ancient tongue-twister - to officially declare the fishery open for the season.
After the dredging the assembled guests join the civic dignitaries for an oyster lunch on board the sailing barge Hydrogen, with the oysters - known locally as the "Pyefleet natives" - provided by Mr. Kerryson.
Oysters have been cultivated in the tidal estuaries around Colchester since before the times of the Roman invasion. Romans found these succulent shellfish so delicious that they set about establishing an industry around the Colchester beds and even exported them to Rome.
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Kilbroney Show
September 6, 2008
Kilbroney Park
The Kilbroney Show is Ireland's largest old vehicle event, taking place at Kilbroney Park, County Down. Around 1000 vehicles and 20,000 spectators come to the event from all over the British Isles, helping to raise thousands for charity.
By 9am, cars, lorries, buses, tractors and motorcycles start pouring into the park to be minutely examined by vintage car buffs. All makes and models of vehicles first registered on or before 31 December 1979 are welcome, as are autojumblers and traders.
Kilbroney Park is at the foot of the scenic Mourne Mountains, so if the weather is good, the day is a real treat for vintage car lovers. Bad weather can threaten the show and visitors are advised to call the organisers before planning a trip. Please visit The Association of Old Vehicle Clubs in Northern Ireland website for the latest information.
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The Gorgeous Mendip Walking Festival
September 6-7, 2008
Cheddar
The Gorgeous Mendip Walking Festival (formerly The Gorge Outdoor Festival) in Cheddar offers various walks, each with a different theme and level of ability, ranging from a teddy bear's picnic for toddlers to a 30-mile walk for the dedicated.
Each ramble is organised by an expert - representatives from the Mendip Society reveal the history of the gorgeous Cheddar Gorge, while others from the National Trust focus on conservation issues. This is a brilliant way to discover a beautiful part of England - but save some energy to enjoy the local ale at the end of the day.
Other activities on offer include cycling and climbing. Please contact the organisers for booking forms and details.
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