Rejoicing in Ripon: Mayor welcomes visitors from far and near to Ripon’s famous Hornblower ceremony
Tourists from Australia, Columbia and the USA were among those treated this week to a Ripon tradition that goes back 1,400 years ⏳.
The city’s four Hornblowers – Wayne Cobbett, Allison Clark, Steven Bartlett and Adrian ‘Gunner’ Mardon – have been giving a nightly insight into Ripon’s rich history, heritage and customs 🎺 as they tell the story surrounding the setting of the watch ceremony 🔔.
This week, newly elected Mayor of Ripon, Councillor Andrew Williams, dressed in his casual clothing 👋, has been on hand to greet visitors to the city of his birth. Last night, following Gunner’s potted Hornblower history, both men received cheers and applause 👏.
Speaking to a group of 50+ people on Market Square – including a coach party from Cambridgeshire 🚌 currently taking in the delights of North Yorkshire – Cllr Williams said:
“We are one of the UK’s smallest cities, but you can be assured of the biggest welcome whenever you come here.” 💛
He added: “Please tell your family and friends about the Cathedral City of the Dales and come back soon.” 🏰✨
Cllr Williams is following in the footsteps of Hugh Ripley, who became the first Mayor of Ripon 422 years ago 📜, and he told Tim Flanagan of the Rejoicing in Ripon blog:
“I believe all who live in and love this place can play a part in being ambassadors for the city and, like Wayne, Allison, Steven and Gunner, we should all unashamedly blow Ripon’s horn at every opportunity.” 🎺💙
Lilla Bathurst, manager of Ripon BID, said:
“The attraction of more tourists from the UK and across the globe 🌍 is vital to the city’s economy, and the unique setting of the watch ceremony underlines the incredible heritage assets we have here — including our magnificent medieval cathedral ⛪, Ripon Town Hall, Market Square, the obelisk, canal 🚤 and our tremendous trio of museums.” 🏛️🏛️🏛️
Picture captions:
- Hornblower team member Adrian (Gunner) Mardon is pictured finalising last night’s setting of the watch ceremony with the last blow going to Mayor of Ripon Councillor Andrew Williams.
- Shortly after 9pm Gunner addressed the gathering of 50 plus people on Market Square.
- The setting of the watch involves blasts of the horn at the four corners of the obelisk.
- Tourists, brought to Ripon on coaches like this are vital to the city’s economy.
All photos were taken by Tim Flanagan of the Rejoicing in Ripon Blog for Ripon BID.
