Each year, on the eve of Ascension Day, on the east bank of the River Esk in Whitby, a short hedge is constructed from stakes woven together, able to withstand three tides.
This year’s planting was carried out on a fine morning, before a good crowd, by Lol Hodgson and Tim Osborne.
On completion of the hedge, a horn was sounded followed by three cries of “Out on Ye!” while members of Whitby Community Choir followed by singing The Famous Penny Hedge.
Tim Osborne, horn blower and hedge builder, said it was “really good” to see a decent crowd witness the ancient tradition once again and added: “It’s part of Whitby’s history isn’t it?
"It’s important to keep it going.”
On Saturday May 11, The Whitby Bookshop on Church Street is hosting the launch of a new book, The Penny Hedge – Whitby’s Rustic Curiosity, by Alastair Laurence.
The book explores the origins, legends and modern history of the Horngarth ceremony and planting of The Penny Hedge.
You can meet Mr Laurence at the signing at 1pm on the day.
1. Penny Hedge
Pictures from the planting of the Penny Hedge in Whitby. Photo: Richard Ponter
3. Penny Hedge
The fabulous Penny Hedge tradition gets under way with Lol Hodgson and Tim Osborne building the hedge.picture: Richard Ponter Photo: Richard Ponter
4. Penny Hedge
Construction of the Penny Hedge in Whitby harbour.picture: Richard Ponter Photo: Richard Ponter