By John Thornton, Penzance OCS
I thought I would share my experience of being a stand-in banner bearer. It was not something I had considered until I saw the low banner turnout at An Gof. With so many events around Cornwall, it can be onerous for a Society’s appointed Banner Bearer to travel to everything. With Gorsedh coming up in early September in Bodmin, maybe a trip up to Bodmin a couple of weeks earlier for the Prayer Book Rebellion service was not ideal. So not all banners made that journey, but it was a good to see so many.
I was going to the event anyway, so I offered to step in if here were no other plans. What happened next was unexpected and much appreciated. So, this article is to encourage others to offer to step up as a banner helper. It will increase your Society exposure and will also be personally fulfilling.
My experience: –
- It added something special to the event, with a duty to perform. You feel more part of the process.
- There is an enhanced social element as you are gathered with other banner bearers. A good way for newer members to feel engaged.
- Our Old Cornwall banners are handmade with love and skill -works of art with amazing embroidery. The banner does generate dialogues with other attendees. Talk about banner content, Society background etc. There is a book on the topic of each Society and their banner that your society may have.
Interesting reading or just ask questions of other banner bearers. - Some events are much less onerous than others. For example, the Prayer Book Rebellion service, it was a march down the church aisle at the start and piper led exit at the end.
- The process is clear as Priscilla Oates makes sure you know what you are doing. Largely just following as “it all happens around you”
- The banners are not too heavy; our banner comes with a leather strap to support but I did not need that on this easy event. It is more appropriate for longer parades.
The traditional banners are fantastic, but they can become very heavy and can damage in the rain. Our OCS also has a new vinyl banner which makes a great wet weather alternative. Some Societies at the weekend event were interested in the vinyl approach. We find that a bad weather spare is a good idea and also allows for two banners to appear from one Society at different locations at the same time. Example, St Piran’s parade in Truro but also a banner at a local event. Cost of a vinyl banner is c.£400 or less with a friendly local sign maker.
So, a plea, help your Society to get their banner out and about by offering to step in when needed. I’m sure your appointed bearer will appreciate the help when needed.
A memorable and enjoyable experience.
