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At a
meeting of a few Calverley residents in January 1996 to
discuss ideas for the Millennium Celebrations, a
suggestion was made to revive some form of the ancient
custom of “beating the bounds”. From this came the plan
to create a circular walk round the boundary of
Calverley Village, an idea which received general
approval at a public meeting in June 1996. The Calverley
Millennium Way is a result of these beginnings.
The ancient
ceremony of “beating the bounds” originated in the
Middle Ages then, led by the vicar, large numbers
processed around the parish boundaries in spring (Rogationtide).
Prayers were said for the success of the harvest and the
boundary markers were blessed, repaired and if necessary
repainted. The whole occasion almost always included
either refreshments on the way or a parish feast at the
conclusion, and boys who were at the party were given
sweets, fruit and ribbons so they would not forget where
they had been.
After the
English Civil War, parishes started buying long white
wands with which the boys during Rogation Walks, were
encouraged to beat the boundary markers so they would
remember just where these were, Sometimes the boys were
physically “bumped” to keep their memories of the
boundaries alive.
In the last
two hundred years the old boundaries have become blurred
or forgotten, and the Millennium Way cannot follow any
of the modern ones, it does however, cover all the
pleasant surrounding areas of the village. Perhaps those
who walk it may recall the old custom of “beating the
bounds” and may be encouraged not only to remember the
extent of Calverley but also be active in protecting it
against all forms of encroachment.
The Rotary
Club of Calverley were instrumental in the construction
of this walk rebuilding dry stone walls, fitting new
“kissing gates” putting up sign markers, building
hardcore path, planting bulbs and installing new
fencing.
For their
efforts the Club won the Rotary District Environment
Award and the National Environment Award a wonderful
achievement for a small club.
 
including map and pictures
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