Possible May Day parade

This lively street scene from around 1917 captures what appears to be a May Day parade or village gathering in Sturminster Newton, a picturesque market town nestled in the heart of Dorset. Men, women, and children walk together, dressed in early 20th-century attire — flat caps, cloche hats, and long coats — reflecting the fashions of wartime Britain.

Behind the crowd, we glimpse local cottages and early motorcars, adding a layer of everyday life to the celebration. The mood seems festive despite the ongoing First World War, and the strong sense of community is palpable. It’s a rare image of unity, resilience and tradition in rural England.

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