May morning at Magdalen Bridge

This year Magdalen Bridge was once again open to pedestrians and closed to traffic to enable everyone to enjoy the singing in comfort and safety.

Approximately 4,000 people gathered near Magdalen College to hear the choir at 6am on Tuesday 1 May.

Rachel Capell, City Events and International Links Officer at Oxford City Council, says: "We knew today's event would be different to last year as it was on a working day. But we are pleased that people once again respected the decision to open the bridge. 

"We worked closely with the police and other agencies to ensure that people enjoyed the event."

Superintendent Paul Hayles of Thames Valley Police, says: "We are pleased that people in Oxford were able to enjoy the traditional celebration of May morning peacefully and safely.

"There were no arrests during the event and we once again supported Oxford City Council who ran the event. "

Alan Weir, Emergency Services Manager, South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, says: "We are pleased that all the systems that were put in place worked. We responded to five minor incidents on the site and no-one needed hospital treatment."

May Morning in Oxford is a traditional celebration of the coming of Spring and brings together Oxford's communities to enjoy dancing, singing and revelry from around the city.

The celebrations started at 6am with the choir of Magdalen College choir singing The Hymnus Eucharisticus from the Great Tower. The Hymnus Eucharisticus was composed in the 17th century by a Fellow of Magdalen and has been sung every year from the Great Tower on May Morning.

Oxford City Council worked with the support of Simon Chatterton, the event producer responsible for the city's Luminox event in Broad Street. We also worked closely with a Steering Group to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment.  Oxford City Council worked with Oxford Inspires on collating information about cultural activities happening on the day.

Published 1 May 2012