This year I climbed May Hill alone to cover the traditional Mayday sunrise festivities. Getting out of bed at 4.00am, I drove to the foot of the hill, parked and began my ascent in total darkness. I seriously thought my heart was going to give out, humping the heavy camera equipment up the steep incline by torch light - slipping on the wet grass. It was pounding so hard in fact that I could feel it in my throat. I made it on time to the top though, and after taking a few moments to recover, set up the equipment.

It was cold, though not quite as bitterly so as last year - more a damp cold with a strong wind. A crescent moon lit the Eastern sky and the thin layer of cloud did not spoil the photo opportunities as Royal Forest of Dean and Lassington Oak Morris set about their Mayday task. It was all worth it because the dancing worked - the sun rose precisely on time at 05.40am. Heaven knows what would have happened if the dancers had been put off by the cold and damp - perpetual darkness over May Hill maybe.

Not quite as many people turned up as did last year and I guess this was due to the weather but there were still the best part of a good few there to make sure that our area was nicely illuminated by the sun. Some joined in whilst others watched and I filmed the whole event, right up to the final group dance around the trees.

An edited version of the morning's celebrations, which I guess have more to do with eating a hearty breakfast afterwards, singing traditional songs for the rest of the day and drinking beer, rather than making sure the sun rises can be watched in this week's WNTV NEWS programme.

GLYN AND WAYNE WILLIAMS

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS

Reasonable rates

Telephone: 01989 564041
Mobile: 07800 518353

Dave and Jacqui Newman would like to welcome you to the White Lion 16th Century Riverside Inn. Situated right on the banks of the River Wye at Ross, the White Lion is a picturesque local inn with an interesting history and is noted for its spectacular river views. The White Lion has long been a favourite place to relax by both local people and tourists alike.

The White Lion's extensive and picturesque gardens reach right down to the river's edge and are a wonderful place to enjoy views of the river. It is a great spot to watch the local otters, nesting swans and other wildlife.

Accommodation

Log Fire

Old Gaol Restaurant

Meals served every lunch time
and evening in the bar and restaurant

CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2008

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PLEASE NOTE HOWEVER: This is an absolute deadline and not the time I am asking for articles to be sent in. Mondays and Tuesdays here at 'Wyenot News' are Hell with by far, the most events I cover occurring at the weekend. The photography that the public sees happening is only one tiny part of the whole picture (please excuse the pun) of running this weekly news publication and the bits of prep that people do not see, are actually the most time consuming part of getting the story out.

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Alan

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