THE tradition of maypole dancing proved to be thriving in Ryedale when crowds watched the May Day celebration on Monday.

Village groups took advantage of the attraction in Sinnington and Slingsby to raise funds for their causes as the dancers demonstrated their intricate routines around maypoles, while at Ryedale Folk Museum tourists were invited to learn the skill.

Children, who had been trained at Sinnington Primary School, in the dance routines, put them into practice to the delight of residents and tourists.

Several organisations, among them the local playgroup, football club, village hall, chapel and youth club, each ran stalls, and there was a display by Ryedale Dog Rescue and a dog show.

Ken Gill, chairman of Sinnington village hall, said: “It was a great day for everyone and we provided enjoyment for many people who came to see the maypole dancing.”

A duck race also proved one of the highlights for Sinnington’s celebrations.

Ryedale Folk Museum in Hutton-le-Hole, staged its maypole dancing with the help of volunteers.

Emma Colclough, the museum’s learning and volunteer co-ordinator, who helped put them through their paces, said: “Many come back year after year to take part. It was a great day.”

Other attractions at the museum included demonstrations by veteran local blacksmith Robin Butler, basket making by Joan Smith and chemist and village shop expert, volunteer helper, Peter Smith.

A special treat for children was Max, the Clydesdale horse, giving rides around the museum grounds.

In Slingsby, Malton White Star Band provided entertainment along with the maypole dancers from the local school, and a team of Morris dancers on the village green, which was packed with fund raising stalls by local organisations. Earlier, a car boot sale had packed the village.

Families enjoyed an event called Nature Day at an innovative centre for art, design and nature in Crayke. Dutch House organised a range of children’s art activities, live music, nature trails, story-telling, a barbecue, arts and crafts stalls and plant sales. Among musicians taking part was Dutch drummer Thomas Kwakernaat.