This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Thursday, 7 April 2022
Killed By an 'Obby 'Oss?
In Padstow (Cornwall), on May Day, they have the tradition of the 'Obby 'Oss. This is a male dancer, wearing a 2 metre wide costume, weighing 50 lbs, who cavorts in the gathered crowd. The local coroner has ruled that a woman, in her 30's, probably died after being accidentally struck in the neck by the costume (https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/apr/07/hobby-horse-death-in-cornwall-prompts-coroner-to-call-for-tighter-rules). The woman, who had had neck problems, died from an artery tear in her brainstem. The coroner is adamant that he doesn't want to spoil the 'fun'. He does, however, want tighter rules and risk assessments for such gatherings. Sadly, he isn't clear on who should be asked to do this. Clearly, traditions can be dangerous.
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