Following the AGM in March, Wheatley Local History Group welcomed Bob Massey, who gave an interesting talk on the origins of the Spring Bank Holiday and the traditions associated with the holiday weekend.
Many may remember when there was a Whit (Whitsuntide) bank holiday, with its date linked to Easter. It is believed that this was changed by the Ted Heath Conservative government in the early 1970s to establish a fixed holiday on the last weekend in May. As a result, most, if not all, of the traditions associated with Whitsuntide were lost.
The group meets bi-monthly on Monday mornings, from 10.00am to 12.00pm, at North and South Wheatley Village Hall. New members are always welcome, particularly those interested in hearing a variety of speakers on historical and related topics.
The next meeting will be on Monday 19th May, when Chris Hewis will present a talk entitled Wedding Customs – a light-hearted look at ancient wedding traditions.
For more information, please contact Dee on 07771 578956 or dee.miles660@btinternet.com.