THE 50th anniversary of the Witney Feast carousel church service got the 771st edition of the event under way.
The Rev Toby Wright led the town centre service on the fair’s galloping horses in front of a crowd of Witney residents.
A civic service was held at St Mary’s Church before the choir made its way to the Leys Recreation Ground carousel for the centuries-old tradition.
The four-day event, which now includes a funfair, music and singing, started in 1243 when King Henry III granted two deer from the Royal Forest of Wychwood to celebrate the rededication of the church.
Witney mayor Jeanette Baker said: “It was quite an occasion, there were lots of people there it was good to see everyone attending what is a very traditional event.
“The church service took place on the carousel itself, which played the music for the hymns which was quaint and beautiful.”
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