St Winnold’s Day Parade returns to Downham Market to celebrate town’s history with historic horse fair

A town’s historic horse fair was celebrated as dignitaries, councillors and pupils gathered for the St Winnold’s Day Parade.

Many took to the streets of Downham on Friday morning to watch shire horses and ponies make their way through the town as part of the annual event.

The animals were followed by dignitaries, including town crier Ray Wales, South West Norfolk MP Liz Truss, Downham mayor Cllr John Doyle and West Norfolk mayor Cllr Margaret Wilkinson.

The event celebrates the fair, which was said to have been one of Europe’s biggest of its kind.

Downham has a historic connection with horse markets, which were granted in 1046 and confirmed by Edward the Confessor in a charter of 1503.

Downham’s Mayor Cllr John Doyle said: “It was wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate our historic market which is nearly 1,000 years old and honour the memory of the horse fairs which were the largest in Europe.

“The parade went very well, drawing a large crowd of people who seemed to really enjoy the celebration.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who took part and made the day so successful, including Hillcrest Primary School and Downham Preparatory School who both produced lovely artwork, and the many residents of Downham Grange Care Home who attended.”

Children from both schools also came to watch the parade.