Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, took part in a traditional ‘beating the bounds’ walk, in Codsall, on Saturday.
‘Beating the bounds’ is an ancient custom of walking around the parish. It is traditionally led by the parish priest, who blesses the crops in the hope of bringing forth a good harvest.
The event would usually take place in the lead up to the celebration of the Ascension, in late April or early May.
Last year was the first ‘beating the bounds’ to take place in Codsall in 78 years, with the previous one occurring in 1935.
The walking group left St. Nicholas Church, in Codsall, at approximately 9:30am in the morning.
The route, which consisted primarily of public footpaths and rights of way, saw walkers go through Bilbrook, Dam Mill, Wergs, Perton, Bradshaws Estate, Kingswood Common and Codsall Wood, before finishing in Codsall.
All members of the local community were invited to join in the traditional walk. They were free to join in either for a section of the route or for the entire parish boundary walk.
Gavin said: “I greatly enjoyed being able to take part once more in this ancient tradition. I had a wonderful time, last year, and this year’s walk was equally enjoyable.
“We were incredibly lucky with the weather, which was perfect, and I hope that our efforts were successful in bringing about a good harvest, this Autumn.”