Crowning of the May Queen is an ancient tradition which today has largely vanished from Suffolk’s communities.

East Anglian Daily Times: Kingsmead May Queen day at Stowmarket middle school in 1968 Picture: ARCHANTKingsmead May Queen day at Stowmarket middle school in 1968 Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

The ceremony celebrated the spring season of new birth and new growth on the May Day holiday - and heralded maypole dancing and other entertainment from the young of the villages.

Continuing a tradition stretching back to the Middle Ages, the young May Queen headed the parade through the village for the May Day celebrations, wearing a white gown to symbolise purity and was then crowned with a tiara or crown.

Back in 1968, a celebration was held at Stowmarket Middle School where the students were joined on a fine, sunny day by the younger pupils of the Kingsmead school for the event and to learn about its history.

? Did you take part that day - do you remember the event or recognise anyone in our gallery? To share your memories, email charlotte.bond@archant.co.uk

East Anglian Daily Times: Youngsters taking part in the Kingsmead ceremony Picture: ARCHANTYoungsters taking part in the Kingsmead ceremony Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

East Anglian Daily Times: The whole school gathers to watch the event Picture: ARCHANTThe whole school gathers to watch the event Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

East Anglian Daily Times: Crowning of the Kingsmead May Queen day at Stowmarket Middle School in 1968 Picture: ARCHANTCrowning of the Kingsmead May Queen day at Stowmarket Middle School in 1968 Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

East Anglian Daily Times: Youngsters watch the Kingsmead May Queen being crowned at Stowmarket middle school in 1968 Picture: ARCHANTYoungsters watch the Kingsmead May Queen being crowned at Stowmarket middle school in 1968 Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)