Since 1998 the pedestrianised town centre of Holywell has been brought to life with the colour, sound and energy of hundreds of local primary school children dancing and singing the Cadi Ha, but the tradition goes back a lot further.

We are currently researching the history of the dance and song and have found records confirming that it was performed in this area as long ago as at least 1815.

The official version was recorded by Lady Herbert Lewis of Plas Penucha, Caerwys, following a visit to Holywell Workhouse (now Lluesty hospital) and printed.

However, we know that many different versions were sung in dialect in the different villages in the area. Many people will have seen the children performing in Gwyl Cadi Ha in recent years and many will also remember the teams of the 1970s and 1980s who toured the villages under the leadership of Ieuan ap Siôn.

Some readers may also recall seeing Bob Bara Mân, of Greenfield, and others in the 1930s or have sung a few lines of the song as children to request a penny on MayDay.

The committee of Gwyl Cadi Ha considers it essential that the best possible record is made of the history of the tradition, incorporating the memories of as many different people as possible.

We are preparing a video of interviews with people who can recall seeing or performing the Cadi Ha at any time in the past right up the the present day in order to conserve the rich local tradition for future generations.

Interviews can be given in either English or Welsh language. I am appealing for anybody who would be willing to say a few words to share their memories to contact me in order that I can send the interviewer to their door, including people who have previously expressed a willingness to help as the company which started the project ceased to trade and our records were lost.

Email: bailey.cm@virgin.net

Call: 01597 829361