RESIDENTS of the parish of South Brent are invited to take part in an ancient ceremony designed to reinforce its boundaries, and give young people a sense of their place within the landscape and its past.

Beating the Bounds sees locals of all ages walking the parish boundaries, and was historically done to ensure as many people as possible knew where the village’s land ended.

Legend has it that boundary stones along the way were struck with the heads of small boys, although this custom is now ’more honoured in the breach than the observance’ according to local organisers. But young people, hard-headed or not, are particularly welcome to join this year’s walk, which takes place on Saturday, October 1, starting from Heathstone Head at 9.30am.

Transport is being laid on by South Brent Parish Council, which oversees the event, and will run from Station Yard from 8am. Participants are asked not to drive to the starting point themselves.

The 11-mile walk is being led by local scout leaders Tim and Fiona Harvey. It begins with the traditional address, before walkers set off for Gidley Bridge, followed by a tour inside the Avon Dam courtesy of South West Water.

After refreshments served by the ladies of South Brent WI, the beaters will continue via Buckland Ford, stopping for lunch near Petre’s Cross on Western White Barrow and returning via Three Barrows, Glasscombe Corner, Owley Moor Gate, Ladies Wood and the road through Brent Mill.

The event is expected to finish around 4.30pm at The Oak, where free refreshments will be provided to those that have taken part.

Tim and Fiona visited South Brent Primary School last week, talking to the children about the tradition of Beating the Bounds and generating lots of excitement.

Tim said: ’Historically, it was about reinforcing the boundaries of the parish, particularly with regard to the young people.

’There’s something about beating the heads of the youngest members of the parish against boundary stones, though this is now more honoured in the breach than the observance. It’s a way of making sure memories continue.

’Nowadays it’s an opportunity for disparate members of the parish to get together, from primary school children of six or seven up to older people. It’s a very good fun way for the village community to come together.

’There’s a broad spread of people involved, which is part of its charm. Notwithstanding it goes back centuries, it’s not every day you see a 70 year old sharing sandwiches and crisps with a seven year old.’

Organisers anticipate more than 100 people will take part, and anyone is welcome to join in. It is crucial that children of 14 or under are accompanied by a responsible adult, and that no dogs or horse riders come along.

For more information, contact Cllr Mandy Haley on 01364 73809 or [email protected] .