As Halloween draws to a close, Colchester’s long history of witchcraft and superstition resurfaces in the form of cycling, reminding us of its place in the darker pitfalls of English history.
Not only is Colchester known for being the oldest recorded town in the UK, but its infamous 17th century witch trials make it all the more ghostly.
Recently, on the 27th October, the “Essex Witch Trails Haunting Ride” took place ending the ride at Colchester’s North Hill.
The witch-themed 50 mile bike ride offered a blend of history and adventure, drawing cyclists into the folklore-laden landscapes of Essex.
The event catered to riders of all abilities, connecting participants with the mysterious past that echoes through Essex’s countryside.
Hosting the event is Greg Nay who has run the ‘Essex Witch Trails’ for three years. Greg says 'This year in particular I would say that the riders enjoyed the narrative aspect of the ride.'
Nay took the time to create a booklet ‘to go along with the ride and as they rode from one checkpoint to the next, the story would unfold a little bit more.’ Greg and Colchester’s rich history certainly brought the setting to life.
‘On the previous two events I put on, the booklets were of a more historical nature; mentioning accused witches and the reasons behind the witch trials themselves.’
One of Nay's enjoyments of the ride is ‘seeing the riders turn up at the checkpoints with a smile on their face after successfully finding the hidden clues, generally knowing they are having a good time makes me happy.’
Nay's devotion to these events brings the community of Colchester together. He further explains ‘Just as importantly is the social aspect of cycling and when I see people who have never met before getting on like a house on fire, I feel like I have achieved what I set out to do.’
17th-century Colchester witnessed brutal accusations and punishments that targeted women and marginalised communities.
By bringing the history of witchcraft and its implications into Colchester’s public discourse, Nay connects past and present by illustrating how the persecution of "witches" parallels modern-day discrimination against minority groups.
Greg Nay importantly states he likes that ‘people are made aware of it as it has definite ties to the way people of minority groups are vilified in the present day and should be used as an example of what can happen if things are taken too far..’
Thank you Greg and many other Colchester event runners who show dedication to Colchester’s history and, despite the cold weather, build a warm sense of community through these activities.
