THE first day of May can mean only one thing in North Cornwall - Padstow’s Obby Oss celebration.

The traditional May Day event brought plenty of colour and joy to the town as locals and visitors marked the traditional Celtic feast of Beltane, which honours the approach of summer.

Master of ceremonies Peter Bluett leads the Blue Oss through the streets of Padstow
Master of ceremonies Peter Bluett leads the Blue Oss through the streets of Padstow. (Picture: Adrian Jasper)
Teasing the Original Old Oss
Teasing the original ‘Old’ Oss. (Picture: Adrian Jasper)

The popular celebration, which is one of the oldest surviving festivals in the UK, features two rival hobby horses, the Red (Old) Oss and Blue (Peace) Oss.

Two Oss costumes are worn through the town coloured red and blue, with those in attendance cheering for one or the other, or even both.

Padstow Obby Oss Day 02.
The Obby Osses were accompanied by accordion musicians on the narrow streets of Padstow. (Picture: Adrian Jasper)
A family time as they all get in the spirit of the day
A great time was had by all as families got together to celebrate the annual event. (Picture: Adrian Jasper)

Thousands of people gathered to enjoy the carnival atmosphere and watch the vibrant procession of music makers and dancers take to the town’s narrow streets for this famous party.

Camborne ladies enjoying the Padstow May Day are Becky, Kirstie and Jenny
Becky, Kirstie and Jenny enjoying the Padstow May Day event. (Picture: Adrian Jasper)