Crusaders Chase

Today, I headed down to the Roman Bridge to watch the Crusaders Chase, which is part of the town’s festival week. Today’s blip is of Billy Innes, this years Honest Lad.

In November 1936, a small group of people met to discuss the possibility of forming a riding club. Early in 1937, The Club was formed and named The Crusaders’ Riding Club. In 1949, a Club Charter was presented by Mr Clapperton to the Crusaders’ Riding Club and this is now read during the flag raising ceremony at the Harbour following the beach gallop.

The annual Crusaders Chase is a popular and colourful event with many townsfolk gathering at the Roman Bridge to see the horses and riders, led by the Club Captain, cross the River Esk.

After the horses and riders had forded the river, the duck race took place, when the ducks get thrown off the Roman Bridge and head down to the finish line at Shorthope Bridge (see extras).

The weather was excellent too, which just added to the fun. 

I hope you have had a good start to the week.