Documents

At the time of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II on 2nd June 1953, the Borough of Barnstaple organised a programme of Events and Festivities in celebration between 29th May and 6th June. This document is the Souvenir Programme printed on the occasion.
In addition to souvenir mugs there was dancing, competitions for the best streets, shops and businesses, a religious services, peals of bells, tree plantings, a 21 gun salute, sports meetings, band concerts, dramatic productions, a bonfire, a cricket match, an old folks’ tea, a swimming gala, a coronation ball and a floodlit pageant.
Of particular significance to Pilton, Bradiford and Pottington were the opening of the New Wing at Pilton House Old People’s Home, a peal of bells by St Mary’s Church, a Sports Meeting at Barnstaple Rugby Ground, and a Coronation Cricket Match at Pottington Sports Ground. There were also street parties in Bradiford, Chaddiford Lane, Abbey Road, Rolle Street and Braunton Road.
Thanks are due to Mary Passmore who saved this programme. It has also been passed to the Barnstaple History Group.