The civic leaders of Oxford participated in a fairground activity during the traditional opening ceremony of the annual St Giles’ Fair.
Reverend Anthony Buckley, representing St Michael at the North Gate, joined newly installed Lord Mayor Chewe Munkonge on the Sky Flyer attraction.
The Oxford Salvation Army Band provided musical accompaniment with hymns throughout the religious ceremony, which drew dozens of spectators.
St Giles’ Fair, established as a parish gathering connected to St Giles’ Church, holds records from 1624, making it one of Oxford’s most enduring customs with a heritage exceeding four centuries.
Following an array of biblical readings and supplications, Reverend Buckley delivered an address to those assembled.
His remarks emphasised aspirations for a neighbourhood where youngsters feel secure playing outdoors and senior residents can relax and socialise without concern.
He expressed gratitude to Oxford City Council and the Mayor for maintaining an environment that is emotionally, spiritually and physically secure for all attendees.
The Lord Mayor remarked upon his good fortune in the position and described satisfaction with his initial three months in office.
He noted that the fair represented one of the most distinctive experiences of his tenure and expressed pleasure at witnessing community members coming together.
He acknowledged being struck by the diversity of every neighbourhood and affirmed his commitment to uniting them as promised during his inauguration speech, indicating his intention to continue these efforts in the coming months.
Reverend Daniel Walters from St Giles’ Church then conducted a prayer, with Reverend Jonathan Lewis-Jong from St Mary Magdalen Church subsequently offering a blessing.
After these formalities concluded, the entertainment portion commenced as the Sky Flyer welcomed its first riders of the season.
Reverend Buckley and Mayor Munkonge sat together as they ascended on the attraction, clutching the metal chains while rotating at elevation.
Notably, Reverend Buckley harbours a fear of heights but chose to overcome this apprehension for the occasion.
The Lord Mayor provided support throughout the brief journey, during which the pair discussed their five preferred Elvis Presley compositions, including the classic hit Cannot Help Falling in Love.
Reverend Buckley later stated that his acrophobia is pronounced but the Mayor’s reassuring demeanour proved beneficial.
Joey Noyce from James Noyce and Sons Funfairs operated the ride for approximately twenty participants.
His grandfather, James, initially attended the event in 1954, bringing his wooden carousel two years later.
This carousel now stands as the sole entirely wooden amusement ride of its kind in the United Kingdom.
The 57-year-old operator stated that the fair represents the most distinguished such event globally, with no comparable venue in existence, and expressed considerable pride in his involvement, marking it as a significant achievement.