Residents of Helston Resist Ban on 'Headbanging': Defending a Quirky Tradition

helston, cornwall, england - Residents of Helston, a friendly market town in Cornwall, are resisting a ban on 'headbanging', a tradition where schoolchildren are lifted by their feet and gently bump their heads against boundary markers. The town council has ordered an end to this centuries-old tradition citing health and safety concerns, but locals believe it adds character to their community.

Residents of Helston, a picturesque market town in Cornwall, are standing up against a ban on a peculiar tradition known as 'headbanging'. This tradition, dating back to 1585, involves schoolchildren being lifted by their feet and gently tapping their heads against boundary markers to reaffirm the town's borders. While the town council has decreed an end to this practice citing health and safety guidelines, many residents see it as a cherished part of their heritage.

Despite the council's stance, many in Helston believe that these quirky customs help define the town's identity and should be preserved. Clare McEwen, a local resident, fondly remembers participating in this tradition as a child, describing it as a magical experience. Evelyn Perry, another resident, recalls stories from her grandfather about the significance of 'headbanging'.

The council's proposal to have parents perform the 'headbanging' ritual instead of the children has been met with opposition, as most parents are unable to participate due to work commitments on Ascension Day, when the tradition takes place. Additionally, the council's suggestion that adults engage in this practice themselves has been deemed too bizarre by many residents.