Tradition and community

We have just returned from a trip to Valencia. We went to this beautiful city because they were celebrating Las Fallas - a traditional celebration of the carpenter. EVERY family and neighbourhood takes part with amazing enthusiasm and work ethic. They parade through the streets and squares wearing their very best beautifully made traditional costumes, men women and children. They walk with pride and musicians play as they walk beside them. It's amazing to be part of and to witness. There is a real sense of belonging. It got me thinking about the old Salford Whit Walks...remember them? What happened? We had that ...we had the kind of traditions we marvel about when we travel to European cities.....we had Whit Walks where it seemed every child had new shoes, socks, knickers and vests and party dresses......it was valued. It seems to me that perhaps the responsibility for the demise lands at the door of the town planning department. Did they realise what the people would lose with ‘ compulsory purchase’ of much loved homes, and building homes which they  themselves wouldn’t live in....? We will never know but it helped to destroy community and tradition. I shall always remember when Walkden Market Hall was demolished.......it had the protection of a Market’s Charter ........did you know that ? So when you go like me to other countries and admire their tradition, community and sense of belonging, admire their markets ....remember there was none better than Cross Lane Market Salford. 

I had to write this ......WHAT IS A CITY BUT IT’S  PEOPLE.