Kersal Moor means many things to many people – now home of Salford City FC and St Paul's School, it's also famous as the moor where Fred Engels used to ride his horse, and for its old racecourse, where in 1838 a quarter of a million Chartists marched from all over the north west to demand the vote and other electoral reforms. Kersal Moor was absolutely central to the birth of democracy (see previous Salford Star article).
Now that unique history is finally being recognised, due to the hard work and persistence of the Friends of Kersal Moor. At 3pm on Bank Holiday Monday, the Mayor of Salford will unveil a commemorative plaque to the Chartists.
The Celebration starts at 1pm with live music from Besses Boys Band, stalls, activities and games. There's even a Salford Star t-shirt stall.
Everyone is urged to come in fancy dress reflecting the history of the Moor, with prizes for the best costumes. Manchester Community Choir will also be performing what is believed to be the first rendition of `A New Song On The Great Demonstration' for 138 years. In case anyone wants to sing along, here's a verse…Altogether now…
`You Lancashire lads, this day is the time
Reformers will now both their hands and hearts join,
For Freedom and Liberty's now is the cry,
To no longer be slaves but like Freemen to die
So let us be steady, determined and ready,
When met boys upon Kersal Moor.'
A Celebration of Kersal Moor, is organised by Friends of Kersal Moor with funding from East Salford Community Committee and the Salford Ranger Team
On Saturday 1st May 2pm, Maxine Peake will be reading Chartist poetry as part of the Frow Memorial Lecture at The Old Fire Station in Salford. Full details here...
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