The streets of Helston were packed to the rafters on Wednesday as the town hosted its traditional Flora Day in warm sunshine. 

The iconic event held every year on May 8, marks the end of winter and the imminent arrival of summer.  

The day’s proceedings began with the sound of the newly installed bell at the Guildhall striking 7am and the Helston Town Band leading the parade for the first dance of the day. From the Guildhall, the colourful and cheerful procession danced its way through the streets before ending at the Godolphin Club. 

Once completed it was then time for the ancient pageant Hal-An-Tow at 8.30am where performers tell the story and history of Helston. Hal-An-Tow consists of an old mystery play with historical scenes being acted out to the sound of traditional songs. The performance started at St John’s Bridge and was repeated at several locations before arriving back at the Guildhall.  

The children’s dance began at 9.50am which saw pupils from Helston’s four schools unite in white headdresses and ties to dance through the town from Wendron Street and ending at Coinagehall Street. This year’s children’s dance was led by four students from Parc Eglos School. 

As the town clock struck 12 it was then time for the midday dance, the busiest part of the day. The Helston Town Band were back in action as they lead dancers up Meneage Street and eventually back to the Guildhall once more. This year’s midday dance was led by Tom Collins, Justine Dale, Lee Padgeth and Jenna Sobey. 

Last on the day’s schedule was the evening dance at 5pm, a last hurrah which saw the early morning dancers return to parade the streets for the finale of Flora Day. 

Pictures: Lynda Harris Travel Counsellor - https://m.facebook.com/people/Lynda-Harris-Travel-Counsellor/61559018182108/