Another day wandering Stratford. (We are still waiting for word about the engine.) Went out to a Morrison's and shopped, then returned to the Leisure Centre Car Park. This time we had to park a little differently, as the rear section (for caravans) has been closed for a few weeks — there's a "Mop Fair" in town, and the carnies have booked the back part out for the duration. No problems — plenty of room elsewhere.
What's a "Mop Fair"? you say. Stratford Mop Fair has its origins in hiring agricultural and domestic labour, set out during the reign of King Edward III. The date is set for 12th October and is only moved if the 12th October falls on a Sunday. In the past, farm workers, labourers, servants and some craftsmen would work for an employer from October to October. At the end of the employment they would attend the annual mop fair dressed in their best clothes and carrying an item showing their trade. For example, a servant with no particular skills would carry a mop head, which lead to the name 'mop fair.' Stratford Mop has an associated 'runaway mop' just over a week later. Traditionally this is from the need for employers to reconsider and re-hire any staff before committing to a full year's work. We don't know if all this still happens, or if it is just an excuse to have a fun fair in the town for a couple of weeks, but we might still be here to find out on Friday when it starts! Oh, by the way, there are other Mop Fairs, but apparently Stratford is the only city in the UK that still closes off its main streets for the event!
After tea, we watched the last two episodes of Cranford before settling in for the night.
(Some more shots around Stratford)
Distance driven — today, 37 miles ( 60 km ); to date, 8,390 miles ( 13,503 km )
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