Every four years Dunmow holds the famous Flitch Trials. Couples put themselves forward to be judged by a jury of six maidens and six bachelors. They have to convince the jury that they "had not wished themselves unmarried for a year and a day". They win the Flitch, a half side of Dunmow Bacon if they successfully prove their undying love and contentment for their partner. The trials dates back to the twelfth century.
Now this is one of those traditions that make you proud to be British. What is better than to gather on the village green on a summer’s afternoon and take part in something that is so much part of our history & absolute fun. The full history can be found here.
These are the men who transport the couple along with the Flitch of bacon from the trial hearings to the town square to make their vows .
This is one of the trials learned council.
Here we see the successful couple being transported to the town square.
The judge and the vicar.
The Dunmow Flitch followed by the lucky couple.
The Town Crier followed by the comic Policemen.
The Flitch
The couple have to make the promise of true love whilst kneeling on jagged rocks.
© Lionel Callow 2016
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