IN 1881 the artist and critic Ruskin inaugurated the May Day ceremony at Whitelands College (a college that trained young women to teach for the most eminent society schools) where it was his wish that every year thereafter the students should elect 'the likeablest and loveablest' of their current number to become their Queen of the May.
The tradition continues to this very day when the May Monarch is voted in and installed by a visiting bishop, although these days when the college is co-educational, a May Queen or May King may be chosen.
This year the ceremony will take place on Saturday May 18th and for more information, please see here.
