Mitcham Fair

A giant golden key rides a carousel in Mitcham Fair, which is traditionally opened by the ceremonial turning of a huge key by the mayor.

Mitcham Fair is believed to be one of England’s oldest fairs and is traditionally opened each year when the mayor raises a huge golden key above his head and turns it a number of times. In this film, the mayor is shown riding the carousel with his massive symbolic key and looking a little sulky about it. We also see several other rides and get an idea of the huge crowds that have attended the event.