Medieval charm to return to Wellington for market's 781st birthday celebration
One of the county’s oldest towns is preparing to mark a special day in its history.
Preparations are underway for the annual celebration of Wellington's Charter Day.
Wellington Market was first recorded on the last day of February 1244 when the lord of the manor was granted charter by King Henry III - making this year the market's 781st birthday.
Eight centuries later it remains one of the region’s biggest and busiest markets, which is open four days a week with over 50 traders and a vibrant food court.
Commemorating that royal seal of approval 781 years ago, the town will be hosting its annual Charter Day celebrations on Saturday, March 1, organised by local community group Wellington H2A.
Sally Themans of Love Wellington said: “The market has been a cornerstone of the town for eight centuries and this light-hearted celebration of its origins is always something to look forward to.”
Visitors to Wellington on Charter Day can expect street games from 10.30am, followed by Morris dancing by the Ironmen and Severn Gilders and the arrival of the ‘King’s Herald’ at 11.30am.
At midday, the town’s ancient Manor Court – made up of five honourable citizens representing local businesses and the town council – will convene to appoint the historic ceremonial roles of town crier, clerk of the market and ale taster.
The position of ale taster was first recorded in Wellington in the 1300s and has been held by Jerry Baily since 2013.
At 1pm as festivities in Market Square draw to a close, Jerry and the other Manor Court officials will retire to The Pheasant Inn where they will judge a baking competition which local people are invited to enter.
Savoury bakes that serve between six and eight should be brought to The Pheasant by midday on Charter Day.
