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2011 saw a Royal marriage, when Prince William wed Kate Middleton
in April, but 2011 also marked one hundred years since another Royal occasion, the coronation of William’s Great-great grandparents,
King George V and Queen Mary.
Along with the rest of the country, Mumbles joined in the festivities on 26 June, which were well reported and advertised in Mr. Tucker's Mumbles Press.
The weather was disappointing, although there was no rain until late afternoon. The whole village was decked out with drapery, flags and streamers. The ‘Ship and Castle’ Public House at Southend was particularly attractive, decorated, as it was, with Chinese lanterns and fairy lamps, so that it was dramatically illuminated after dark. A spectacular tea was provided for all the schoolchildren attending the local elementary schools, but it was decided to hold it in the pupils' respective buildings because of the uncertain weather.
Festivities commenced at Taylor's Corner, with a procession of over 1000 children, led by the Mumbles Silver Band, which then proceeded along as far as the Bristol Channel Yacht Club, then back through the village via Church Park, Park Street, The Dunns and up Newton Road to the Council School, where the national anthem was sung, followed by three cheers for the King and Queen. It was a splendid sight as many of the children were wearing red, white and blue trimmings and carrying flags. The younger children then enjoyed a 'Grand Tea' in the two school premises and the 14‑16 year-olds were entertained to tea at Castleton Congregational Schoolrooms. The caterers were Messrs. Jones and Son, although all the local bakers had shared the order for the cake.
The revellers then moved on to the Castle Field, with the kind permission of the field's lessee, Mr. J. K. Clement, where they enjoyed themselves with sports and games, and the band, under the direction of Robert Todd, played ‘suitable selections’. Sweets and nuts were later given out to the children.
On the Pier, the Ferndale Band played at 3.45p.m. and 6.45p.m. and a Confetti Battle followed in the evening. The finale was a huge bonfire on the hill, which could be seen for miles, as the memorable day turned to dusk.
Later on, the Oystermouth Urban District Council presented each child, including Archie Webborn, with a Coronation cup
Archie Webborn's Coronation Cup, 1911
Acknowledgments
Carol Powell, Once Upon a Village, 1996
Mumbles Press, 22 June 1911
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