Well dressing tradition celebrated in Edington

Villagers in Edington came together last month to participate in the ancient tradition of well dressing, where wells or springs are decorated with designs made from natural materials. 

The event took place on Saturday 22nd June when villagers joined in with the construction, which involved placing petal shells and other organic matter into a clay-filled board, using an outlined picture stencilled into the clay as a guide. The finished picture was put on display near a natural spring in the village. 

Villagers and visitors then enjoyed tea and a selection of homemade cakes served on the green next to the village pond and the natural spring, called the Spout. The day ended with a ceremony to bless the water, led by Rev Malcolm Wieck.   

“It was a lovely, relaxed atmosphere enjoyed by all who attended,” said organiser Liz Pike. “£140 was raised for the air ambulance.”