MORE than 10,000 people descended on Droitwich Spa from last Friday (April 28) to bank holiday Monday (May 1) for the annual St Richard’s Festival.
There were a host of activities and events in and around the town over the four days.
Among them was the annual re-enactment of the blessing of the salt pit where guests followed a route from Victoria Square to the Upwich Salt Pit in Vines Park.
Organised by The Probus ‘87 Club of Droitwich Spa, the parade re-enacted the ‘miracle’ from 1248 when Richard de Wych, the Droitwich-born Bishop of Chichester, made the brine flow again, saving the town as it could make salt again.
Almost immediately after he had cleaned out and blessed the well it rained heavily, the water table rose and the Brine was restored.
The service was conducted by Rev Nigel Byard, the Anglican Vicar, supported by the Thurister Victor Gould and Sian, the altar server from the Sacred Heart Church.
Mayor Coun Roy Murphy and the chairman of the Wychavon District Council, Coun Frances Smith,were also in attendance, as well as the Mayor and visitors from Voiron, the town’s french twinning partners.
Other attractions included canal boats and rides, a real ale bar, a catering village, live entertainment, vintage cars, live entertainment, a Farmers’ Market, classic and vintage cars, nature walks, a duck race and a dog show.
David Wheeler, Chairman of the Worcester Birmingham and Droitwich Canals Society which organised the event, said it was a huge success.
“This annual event has become a must visit attraction over the May Bank Holiday and brings in visitors to Droitwich Spa from all over the Midlands and has become very popular with locals.”
Steve Knight, Wychavon District Council’s marketing and events officer, said: “The festival is a huge part of the town’s social calendar that attracts people from far and wide.
“However, it wouldn’t happen without the volunteers who give their time to help organise and set up the event and I’d like to say a huge thank to everyone who supported the festival for their contribution.”
