Levellers Day, Burford

On Saturday 17 May hundreds of people gathered in the picturesque Cotswold town of Burford to commemorate the killing of 3 dissident Leveller soldiers by Cromwell's men on Thursday 17 May 1649. One of the most shocking incidents of the Civil War, these men had had the temerity to refuse to go and fight in Ireland (read a contemporary eyewitness account by Anthony Sedley)).

Organized, as usual, by the WEA Oxford Levellers Branch, this year's event coincided with the centenary of the founding of the WEA in 1903, and education was consequently chosen as this year's theme.

It was an open air event, but despite an overcast sky and some heavy showers it was an enjoyable occasion with a varied programme of activities. In the morning we heard a number of speeches on educational topics, sitting in the peaceful gardens of Warwick Hall, followed by a lively debate. Speakers included Tim Brighouse (London Commissioner for Schools), Teresa Munby (Ruskin College, Oxford), Kathleen McCann (UNISON SE Region Education Officer) and Chris Rowland (Professor of New Testament Studies, Oxford University).

At 12 noon everyone lined up for a procession round the town. The cheerful crowd, waving banners and dressed in colourful costumes, included a large contingent of Woodcraft Folk, Labour, Green and Peace Movement groups, and the Sea Green Singers (pics).

Afterwards there was a ceremony at the church gate, with Chris Rowland making the dedication to the Levellers followed by the laying of floral tributes in the churchyard.

Afternoon activities included music and singing from the Sea Green Singers and the Red Rose Band, and performances by the Cry Havoc morris dancers, Attila the Stockbroker and David Rovics. Delicious food and refreshments were available all day, courtesy of OxVeg.