First May king in Angmering village celebrations

Reece became the first May King in the long history of the festivities, involving both the village primary schools, and hosted, this year, by St Wilfrid's.

Hundreds of parents watched the traditional event on the St Wilfrid's school field, and around 700 children, from all the school years, and from two playgroups, took part in the dancing and singing.

After a damp, dull morning, the sun came out just in time for a perfect afternoon last Wednesday.

Last year's May Queen, Abigail Hitchcock, returned to crown St Margaret's pupil Reece, and the May Queen, Eleanor Chapman, 10, from St Wilfrid's. A May Prince and May Princess were also chosen for the first time, Freddie Daley, 11, of St Wilfrid's, and St Margaret's pupil Laura Castleman, 10.

Each of the May "royalty" received a trophy to keep, and Reece and Eleanor were presented with cups to hold until next year's event.

The celebrations began with both schools processing to meet each other at the junction of Arundel Road and Palmer Road, before making their way to the school field.

The final dance, around the maypole, was by children from St Wilfrid's years 5 and 6.