April 2013
The medieval market town was full of noise and colour on that sunny summer's day. There were stalls and side shows spread around the ancient square, with flags and bunting flapping in the gentle breeze. The stalls were doing good business, selling their produce and wares. Money was being passed over from hand to hand. Queues were forming at the side shows, especially by the fortune teller's tent, where youngsters were giggling and teasing each other. Trumpets were blaring and cymbals crashing, music echoing and rebounding off the old buildings. Colour and excitement everywhere. People had come from neighbouring villages as well as the town itself to join in the fun. Children and families were rushing around and in between, enjoying themselves immensely.
Everything was going well.
With a fanfare and amid cheers from the people around, the Mayor and parade came into the market square.
He waved and greeted people, shaking their hands and receiving their good wishes. The hustle and bustle paused and the square became quiet, as the Mayor with his retinue behind him, stepped forward.
He looked around at the crowds, waiting. He paused, and looked around him again, with a rather nervous smile on his face.
Suddenly there in front of the Mayor, he stood, all in black from head to toe. Black leather boots over his black trousers, black waist coat over his black shirt, with a black cape slung carelessly over one shoulder. A black hat with a flowing feather, was resting on his head at an angle. A bright sword in one hand and a pistol in the other, pointing towards the Mayor.
Nothing was said. They just looked at each other. The crowds were now silent, watching and waiting.
The atmosphere grew tense.
The Mayor stepped forward, once again looked around. 'Yes , I think a decision has been made.'
He moved towards the figure in black.
'Well done Alfie, you have won the fancy dress for under 12's. You're the best highwayman I've seen for years.'
The crowd cheered and clapped. The little boy smiled as he received his reward, and ran across to show his mother.
The festivities in the square continued.