Key Highlights
- The 2025 Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels sees up to 20,000 people participating in the tradition.
- Les White, 69, is the oldest participant, while Jessica, 7, represents the youngest and latest family member involved.
- Eva White runs a shop selling official merchandise related to the event.
- Tattoo artists provide permanent reminders of the event for both participants and spectators.
Historical Tradition Continues in Ottery St Mary
The annual Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels, a unique and historic tradition dating back centuries, is set to take place on Wednesday with thousands of locals and visitors expected to participate. This year, the event will feature 27 flaming barrels carried or rolled through the town between 16:00 and 23:59 GMT.
Young and Old Participate
The community enthusiasm is palpable as both young and old prepare for their roles. Jessica, a seven-year-old from Ottery St Mary, is one of the youngest participants this year, following in her family’s long-standing tradition. Her grandad has been training her in his garden, while she also practices with her father at home.
Les White, who stands as the oldest participant at 69, offers advice to Jessica: “A warm woolly jumper will be good for you,” he tells her before sharing that he is both excited and a bit nervous. Les’ participation in the event continues a family legacy, with nine members from his side having taken part over generations.
Event Logistics and Community Support
The planning and coordination required to ensure the smooth running of such an event are immense. Carol Head-Wotton, one of the event control staff, explains that they manage crowd movement, coordinate lighting times for the barrels, and maintain order in the town.
Eva White, who runs the official shop selling Tar Barrel merchandise, highlights the strong support from participants: “The runners support us an awful lot,” she states. However, due to safety concerns, they often opt for older clothing during the actual event.
Unique Challenges and Traditions
The tradition is not without its unique challenges. Participants face potential hair damage, with many choosing to grow their hair longer before the event. Tattoo artists, such as those at Rivers of Ink tattoo studio, offer permanent reminders of this significant community event for both participants and spectators.
While Jessica may only be seven years old, she expresses her determination: “If daddy’s going to do it, I’m doing it,” she says, showing the spirit of family involvement that has defined the Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels over generations.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels remain a cherished tradition, linking past and present through community participation. As the event approaches, residents and visitors alike look forward to this unique spectacle that showcases the spirit of local pride and family legacy. The continued involvement of both young and old ensures that this historic tradition will continue for many years to come.
