I have lived in Copmanthorpe since 1992.
It is a very lively village with lots of societies, clubs and sports groups.
There are two annual village red-letter days.
The Carnival has been a staple event in July for over 50 years. It is held at the Recreation Centre and is the main source of income of this excellent amenity. When I moved into Copmanthorpe, I remember it as a fairly modest affair with all the activities taking place on a Saturday. It was very traditional – there was a Carnival Queen procession through the village and many of the clubs and societies decorated floats in the theme of the year.
The floats, of course, were trailers pulled by local farmers’ tractors. Over time this spectacle fell foul of Health & Safety and was sadly abandoned. The walking parade which replaced it was really no substitute and that too faded away after a couple of years.
Times change and punters now expect more than good old-fashioned entertainment, such as a coconut shy, if they are going to part with their hard-earned cash.
The Carnival now is a week-long extravaganza, incorporating the likes of a children’s disco, a comedy night, a wine tasting evening and much more. The big day is still Saturday, which has become a mini music festival with live music on stage all afternoon.
Glad to say that there is still a good smattering of traditional garden fete type children’s activities with ‘Bat the Rat’ remaining a firm favourite.
The new(ish) kid on the block is the charity beer festival, which has just celebrated its eleventh birthday.
It has a snappy title – “Coptoberfest” – and, as the name suggests, it takes place in October.
The venue is the village’s C of E church, which is no surprise, as the vicar is an active member of CAMRA. The body of the church is emptied and a bar set up along one wall.
Each year there are around 30 beers on offer, all from within a 25-mile radius of York.
In addition, there are ciders, wine, prosecco and a gin bar.
There is also live music in the evenings and hot Ged Bell pies (with or without mushy peas) to enjoy.
This has become extremely popular and successful and it is such a friendly event with a terrific, lively atmosphere. Originally held on a Friday and Saturday, it has now been extended to a Thursday as well (opening times vary).
Of the monies raised a proportion goes to the church, a donation is given to St. Leonard’s Hospice and the remainder is available for local groups, club and societies to apply for a grant.
Yes – I like living in Copmanthorpe. Cheers!