WELLINGTON Folk and Custom Society are reviving the ancient tradition of Clipping the Tower as part of the patronal festival weekend for St John’s Church.

Last carried out in 1889, the tradition involves forming a human circle of people holding hands to encircle the church in a practice dating back to Anglo-Saxon times.

The clipping is open to people of all faiths and will be held on Saturday, June 27, between 12 noon and 5 pm as church members celebrate St John’s Day.

The ritual will start at the church’s willow arch with blessings and a piper and drummer leading the procession to circle the church and return through the human arch.

Refreshments and mixed stalls will be arranged in the church hall.