A Poppleton Village Feast held on the Green at Upper Poppleton at Whitsuntide has been traced back to 1887 and seems to be the origin of the Sports Day.

In those days the two villages were very separate. The rivalry between Upper and Nether Poppleton has been at the heart of the related celebrations through the years and still can be seen occasionally in the tug-o-war events.

However, these days the event is for the enjoyment of the children of the combined villages. Well over a thousand people of all ages attend the Day, either as organisers or as spectators, and see the event as the focal point of the village calendar.

Helen Mackman, who lives in the village, has documented the history in a excellent publication called “One Hundred Years of Poppleton Children Sports Day” priced £4.95. You can obtain a copy from any of the village pubs and several of the shops. Alternatively, email the Treasurer at pbollands@cwcom.net who will put you in touch with Helen.