Town and gown join to celebrate history of St Andrews at Kate Kennedy Parade
ByJonathan Watson
'Kate Kennedy' played by Adam Kent and Bishop played by Francis Walters.
Hundreds of people lined the streets of St Andrews on Saturday as students staged the annual Kate Kennedy Parade.
A highlight of the Town and Gown calendar, the traditional procession through the town centre streets features university students dressed as famous historical figures and is seen as signalling the arrival of spring.
The event sees St Andrews University’s 600-year history brought to life as students in costume portray notable characters from across the centuries.
It purports to herald the start of spring and is billed as an everlasting symbol of youth and hope.
Niece of the founder of St Salvator’s College, Lady Katherine Kennedy is the central figure in the procession and ‘appeared’ in an open, horse-drawn 18th Century carriage decorated with hundreds of daffodils.
Lady Kate is traditionally portrayed by a first-year male student, this year Adam Kent, although the identity is kept secret until he emerges from the gates of St Salvator’s Chapel.
As well as bringing residents and students together, the procession is also used to raise thousands of pounds for local charities.
Town and gown join to celebrate history of St Andrews at Kate Kennedy Parade
