Campden (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Campden

THE topic for January, Well Dressing, was misunderstood by some. For those members who knew Derbyshire it was no surprise, however, when Mr Orchard-Robinson began by showing a slide of the beautiful view of Monsal Dale. Once a year wells in Derbyshire are decorated with displays made from natural materials in thanksgiving for the supply of pure spring water.

The tradition can be traced back over 650 years at one well in Tissington, which has never run dry even in the longest drought. This was not the beginning, however, for it is believed that well dressing goes back to pagan times. Today the themes illustrated are Biblical and spiritual.

The slides showed some of the ephemeral works of art at many lovely spots and members were told how these masterpieces are made, new every year. The completed work is raised to its full height of up to 12 feet. In many places civic events and religious services are held. At Tissington the Bishop and clergy process and hold services at five wells. Tideswell, Wirksworth, too and many other places are visited by the crowds of people touring Derbyshire at this time. And then, after one week, the decorations are taken down - and each well dressing team begins planning for next year.