Parwich Oddfellows Parade 2021

The summer celebrations at Parwich begin on Wakes Saturday, the last weekend in June, with the unique Oddfellows Procession. The Oddfellows are a national not-for-profit organisation offering friendly support to members, with branches around the country; they are non-sectarian and apolitical and support charity work, friendship and care. At Parwich there are nearly 100 very smartly dressed members in the procession bearing staves and banners. They march to the special church service, followed by dinner at the Memorial Hall for the participants.
For more info on UK customs and traditions, visit calendarcustoms...

[@TheYizuman]

What's the banner about and what's it mean with the walking sticks? Looking to learn!

[@averilshepherd3662]

Hi, the banners are for the local branch of Oddfellows (a bit like the way that Trade Union branches and Masonic lodges have their own banners) and I think the staves are to show the members' status as fully fledged members of the organisation (but I'm not a member myself so don't quote me on that!). Hope that helps!

[@TheYizuman]

@@averilshepherd3662 Thanks!