Photo Gallery
Explore these wonderful photos of the walk, the drinking and the beautiful floral arrangements.
Fownhope Heart of Oak Society (FHOS) can trace its roots back to the early 1800s. At that time, there were many Heart of Oak Societies in Britain, based predominantly in rural areas, with agricultural workers forming the majority of the membership. Most societies would have a celebration day each year, often with a Club Walk through the village, a club dinner with speeches from local dignitaries, and a fun fair with sporting activities. There have been changes, but the Club Walk still continues in Fownhope to this day. Every year, in early June, generations of Fownhope folk flock home to take part. Originally, only men and junior members of the society took part in the parade, but in more recent times, all members have been encouraged to take part.
Those taking part carry sticks decorated with flowers freshly cut on the morning of the Walk, and are led in the procession by Club members carrying a decorated oak bough and the club banner. The art of decorating a floral stick for the FHOS Club Walk is passed down from generation to generation and it is a tradition locals hold dear. It was an event Derek Evans returned to again and again, fascinated by a tradition unique to Herefordshire.
Explore these wonderful photos of the walk, the drinking and the beautiful floral arrangements.
Images taken of the Heart of Oak Walk for the project. All photos by Emma Drabble unless otherwise stated