A Relay of a May Day Cornish custom with a Commentary by A. K. HAMILTON JENKIN , from Padstow
(From Cardiff)
PADSTOW was once a busy place. In its small but active shipyards many a fine vessel rose on the stocks before slipping away to the great sea-world outside. But the days of the wooden sailing ships have gone, and now the little town has relapsed into unbroken peace and memories of its past.
From this happy state one day stands out in contrast. At midnight on April 30 the Hebby Horse ' Pairs' perambulate the town, singing their ancient festival song in honour of the new-born summer. Next morning the Hobby Horse itself is brought out for its annual excursion into the streets, and the remainder of the day is given up to dancing and merrymaking.
Something of this ancient folk-festival, which has gone on from time immemorial, will be transmitted through the microphone this evening. A. K. Hamilton Jenkin has fully described this and other ceremonies in his latest book, ' Cornish Homes and Customs ' ; this evening he will give a running commentary and a brief description of the history and meaning of the Padstow Hobby Horse.