BANBURY'S historic May Day traditions are to be revived this year with a street procession and maypole dancing.

Mayor John Donaldson said: "I am keen to see some of the old traditions brought back to life. This town is known throughout the world because of the nursery rhyme 'Ride a Cock Horse to Banbury Cross' and May Day is the ideal time to bring back these celebrations."

Banbury Town Council is organising the event with funding provided by the national Lottery's Awards for All scheme, and leading employer Alcoa.

Schools are involved in the project, with Blessed George Napier staff and pupils working with primary schools and nurseries.

Workshops at St Mary's, St Leonard's, Hillview, and Hanwell Fields primary schools are encouraging pupils to make hobby horses and other animals from wood and cardboard for the procession from the town hall to The Cross.

Other children will dance around a maypole near the bandstand in High Street.

Mr Donaldson said: "I hope lots of people will join me at the town hall at 10am on Tuesday, May 1, so they can be part of the colourful procession.

"St Mary's Church bells will ring out from 10.30am until 11am as the procession winds its way back to the bandstand.

"From 11am schoolchildren will entertain in High Street with music, plays, and more dancing. It promises to be a day to remember."