Rushcart Preparation
Each year the Sowerby Bridge Rushcart is prepared anew for the festival. Starting in mid August, a team of 10 – 15 people are involved in cutting rushes, thatching and decorating the cart.
Rushes are cut on Warley Moor.
Dead rushes, grass and the occasional spider are flung from the freshly cut bundles.
Small bundles of about 80 rushes are tied for the sides of the cart.
Over 600 are used and this represents the majority of the thatching work.
Each bundle is lashed on as tightly as possible to allow for the drying out of the rushes.
The heads of the bundles are trimmed so that overlying rushes lie flat.
Larger bundles of around 250 rushes are bound alternately to the front of the frame.
The ends of each bundle are cut and tucked inside the frame to create a flat surface for the cart’s apron.
Large bundles are also bound to the back of the frame.
These bundles are alternately tied and arranged pointing downwards.
Large bundles are lashed onto to top of the cart leaving just enough room for the saddle.
The frame is lifted onto the cart and secured.
Heather, tankards and horse brasses are used to decorate the cart and the rushes are trimmed round the wheels ready for the event.
Designed by Tom Stringfellow ~ Please e-mail with queries, comments or suggestions ~ Last updated 27/08/03