Ely is the Isle of Eels – it was once surrounded by water with the Cathedral known as the Ship of the Fens. Eels were used as currency as well as a main source of food. In 2004, the Eel festival was created to celebrate the history of the city and be a fun day for locals and visitors.
The eel (a bit like a Chinese dragon idea) moves along the high street, supported by lots of children’s legs underneath – members of youth organisations including Scouting and Guiding.
At the riverside fete it disperses, then entertainment such as dance and singing groups, bands and eel throwing competitions (not real eels!) keeps the crowds amused. This year, the 80th anniversary of VE Day was also celebrated. So with the splendid help from our County Archivist, some Brownies, Guides and Rangers were able to dress in vintage (wartime) uniforms. Our stall included a tombola and other games organised by some of the girls selected to represent the county on international trips to Norway, Iceland and Cambodia in 2025/26.