Parade ‘Romed’ around streets

11:26am Thursday 27th March 2008

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PARADES, galas and shows have played a big part in Lancashire life over the years.

They were events eagerly awaited by townsfolk, who lined the streets in their thousands to watch processions, and thronged onto the show field.

This photo, dating back to probably 1961, shows part of that year's Blackburn Agricultural Show parade.

It has been sent to us by Judith Ball, nee Taylor, of Ribchester, whose sister Christine is sitting astride the family's white horse Sheba, dressed as a Roman maiden.

Next to her, also in Roman guise, is Terry Coyne, on Tiffin, while on the smallest horse behind him, in a black wig, is Pat Ball, shoe tycoon Tommy's sister.

The agricultural show was staged at Witton Park and the parade wound its way through town first, as here it can be seen passing Thwaites' Jubilee Hotel at Blakey Moor.

In the background is, on the left, the George and Dragon, a Dutton's house, and the distinctive Ribblesdale Arms, selling Lion Ales, on the right.

Do you recognise anyone else on this picture?

l Judith and Christine's father, Gerry, used to run a shop in Penny Street, Blackburn, Taylor's pet shop, which was also a gunsmith's and sold sports equipment. Do you remember it?