PEOPLE walking through central Oxford may have been surprised to spot clergy waving sticks or praying outside of Boots today.

But it was for one of the oldest and most eccentric traditions in the city: 'Beating the bounds'.

The ancient practice – which dates back to Saxon times – sees members of St Michael at the North Gate church and the University Church of St Mary the Virgin walk the boundaries of their parish to pray for it at different locations.

They also hit boundary stones with sticks – hence its name – but changes to the city over the years have left some in unusual places, including shops Zara and Marks & Spencer.

Speaking after yesterday's tour, City Rector the Very Rev Bob Wilkes confirmed the boundaries were still in healthy shape.

He added: "We were very grateful this time for the weather because last year we were out in the wind, cold and pouring rain."

At various points the group stopped along the way to pray about different aspects of city life, Mr Wilkes said.

"Outside Boots we talked about medical research and pharmacies, transport issues outside Vincent's, waste disposal outside the Covered Market and the life of retail in M&S.

"We tell people we are coming in advance, but it is one of the more eccentric Oxford customs."