Organisers looking forward to 2021 Rowell Fair after Covid forced unusual proclamation this year

Rothwell's Proclamation Day usually sees hundreds line the streets for a 6am start - but this year it was a little bit different.

With the ongoing coronavirus pandemic seeing large gatherings banned, Rowell Fair Week was officially cancelled in March meaning there was no parade on horseback, rum and milk and playful scuffles to try and disarm the halberdiers or fun fair and entertainment in the streets.

Nonetheless, the charter needed to be upheld and so while many were sleeping a small group - mindful of social distancing - met at 6am outside the Church of the Holy Trinity to support bailiff Frank York as he proclaimed the ancient charter.

Sue Johnson from the Rowell Fair Society said: "This proclamation was not advertised for obvious reasons but was filmed and posted on social media, including the Rowell Fair Society Facebook page.

"The streets are very quiet this year but next year Proclamation Monday falls on the late May Bank Holiday, so everyone will be looking forward to a great one next year.”