Ancient Mop Fair

The annual mop fair in Stratford-Upon-Avon, including the roasting of an ox

The 'mop fair' is an annual custom in Stratford-upon-Avon dating back to medieval times. Traditionally held in October, when labourers and apprentices would come to the town seeking work, the fair culminates in the roasting of a whole ox. All appealing fare for the newsreels - this Topical Budget item was one of several cinematic records of the events.

The mop fair, which continues to this day, was described by historian Charles G Harper in the 1930s as "an offence to people of delicate sensibilities".