“Ship coming through!” says the pirate Captain Mark Williams as he guides the newly built pirate ship down Northgate street.
Flash back to June and the traditional Midsummer parade, a tradition that reflects 500 years of the city’s history. Originally held in 1498 and performed by the City Guilds, the historic parade featured many of the same characters as the modern version, including giants, angels, musicians and animals. The current parade was revived in the 1990s after a 300 year break. The always busy event is a spectacle unique to Chester with its catalogue of puppets and characters crafted by the artist Russell Kirk , and its crowd of enthusiastic local performers. After the pirate ship float fell into disrepair. a new one was constructed (mainly from plastic on a wooden frame) after a successful crowdfund and made a triumphant return to the city streets.
I made my parade debut this year after decades of being a spectator. After making it one of my failed New Years Resolutions last year, pirate Mark kindly invited me to join the crew on the Sunday parade. I had some fun putting a costume together that resembled a classic 1980s Lego pirate minifigure and after meeting some friends for a photo I joined the crew with the Ship anchored outside the Town Hall.
Long time parade supporter Mark spoke about his experiences.
“There were people on the way home that were asking us why we were dressed as pirates, they’d never heard of the parades. I’ve been doing the parades for over 10 years. I’ve been a pirate for 8 years. Its not like its not publicised, some people just don’t see what goes on! Half of the time you’re posing for photos with people!”
Waiting on Bridge street to link up with the main body of the parade I spoke to Mike Houghton, another crew member who played a key role constructing the new ship.
“I’m currently a pirate, before that I was a pirate ship builder, and before that I was part of the Karamba samba band. I’d always liked the idea of getting involved so when Russell said he was building the ship, I asked if I could help with it. I didn’t realise it was going to be a team of one but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience!” Mike also noted the importance of this and other similar events to the visitor economy, especially as traditional retail declines.
“I can hear drums!” I say. Soon the samba drums are beating in front of us, followed by a riot of colour and creativity. The compact city streets serving as a perfect backdrop, almost as if history planned it this way. A tricycle with 3 angels on horseback, the Lord Mayor pulled along on a chariot, a guest appearance from the local plague doctor, a dragon, a devil band. Part of the fun is spotting people you know taking part. The pirate ship takes up the rear of the procession to cheers and waves from the happy crowds that line the streets and the rows.
Another member of the crew commented:
“Before the parade , you’re walking down the road in the middle of Chester and everyone’s looking at you like you’re some sort of weirdo, dressed as a pirate, a bit like Rocky Horror! But when you’re here and you’re fully dressed up , and you’re immersed in the whole thing ,its addictive! I do think its magical with all the kids involved!”
The finale in the Town Hall square saw the final performance of the family of giants. Dave Roberts, who died earlier this year built the originals in the 1990s and was instrumental in the revival and growth of the parades. Taking part in the parade was a fantastic experience and one I’d recommend to anyone wanting a special Chester experience.
This years Winter Watch parades take place on the 5th and 12th December
The Chester blog 