The Haxey Hood is underway in North Lincolnshire

It's back for the first time in three years

Author: Julie CastonPublished 6th Jan 2023
Last updated 6th Jan 2023

The Haxey Hood in North Lincolnshire is taking place today for the first time in 3 years. It took a break due to the Covid pandemic.

The event dates back to the 14th Century.

The historic tradition involves groups of villagers trying to push a leather tube otherwise known as the hood, to one of four chosen pubs.

It's a game that’s based on the tale of a noble woman, riding in the area when her riding hood was taken by the wind.

The winner is declared when the hood reaches one of the four pubs in town, where it stays until the following year.

Hundreds have gathered today for the return of the Haxey Hood

We spoke to The Fool, James Chatwick:

"To be fair we've been ready since 2020. So the preparations didn't need a lot, but the actual speeches and the words they always come back it's like riding a bike.

"But you do have to really think about it. There's a lot more involved that you think there is.

"It's unreal - it's a Friday hood which you would expect to be busy but it's just great - it's great to see the community out, that's what it's all about."

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.