If you’ve ever wondered how the Derbyshire well dressings are created, or even fancied having a go at decorating a well yourself, then here’s the perfect opportunity to find out more!
‘Ripley Well Dressing in the Making 2008’ is taking place from Monday 2 June to Friday 6 June at the Tourist Information Centre, Town Hall, Market Place, Ripley between 10.00am and 4.00pm. This will be followed by a Blessing Ceremony at 11.00am on Saturday 7 June by the fountain at the side of the Town Hall.
Well Dressing celebrates the gift of natural pure water and is a tradition that is unique to Derbyshire. Wooden frames are filled with clay, then a design is etched into the surface. Petals, leaves, cones, seeds, twigs, pebbles and other natural materials are used to produce a colourful picture, which is displayed round the well.
Joanne Brown, Tourist Information Manager at Amber Valley Borough Council said, “If you’d like to learn more about this traditional Derbyshire custom and have a go at dressing a well, then come along to the Well Dressing demonstrations in the Tourist Information Centre at Ripley. No previous experience is necessary; under expert guidance you will be able to participate in this intricate craft and have a chance to see just how much work is involved. We would particularly like willing helpers to come and 'puddle' the clay on Monday 2 June between 10.00am and 4.00pm. This is when the clay is prepared to go into the frames – it’s a messy, but fun experience!”
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For further information please contact Lynda Oldham on 01773 570222 ext. 2483 or The Tourist Information Centre, Market Place, Ripley on 01773 841488 email: tourism@ambervalley.gov.uk
News release issued by Lisa Garnham, PR and Communications Manager at Amber Valley Borough Council, telephone 01773 841655.
Notes for editors:
The Tourist Information Centre is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 9.30am and 5.30pm, on Wednesdays between 10am and 5.30pm and on Saturdays between 9.30am and 3pm. 