RESIDENTS from across Oxford gathered to mark an age-old custom in May 1978.

The traditional ceremony of Beating of the Bounds was held during the Christian festival of Ascension Day.

The custom involving beating boundary stones with willow sticks developed to help property owners establish and maintain their land boundaries.

Participants walked the boundaries of three ancient city centre parishes including St Martin, All Saints, and St Michael.

The two-hour march was led by city Rector Reverend 'Mac' Ramm, despite being injured during a skiing accident earlier that year.

The Lord Mayor of Oxford Dora Carr also joined beaters along the route.