Driffield’s ancient tradition of Scrambling returns on Thursday

The ancient Driffield tradition of Scrambling will return again this year with families invited to take part in the unique event which will take place tomorrow (Thursday 2nd January).

Last year dozens of children and their families took part in the event, which is believed to be unique to Driffield, and it is expected a good crowd of children will meet at Driffield Railway Station at 9am to take part in the tradition.

Scrambling sees Driffield town centre come alive with the sound of children’s excited screams and laughter as they take part in the old custom.

Led by representatives from Driffield Town Council and Driffield town crier Bill Strath, families make their way through the town as shopkeepers throw festive treats for the children to catch.

As the horde of scramblers made their way up Driffield’s main street they chant the ancient verse:

“Here we are at oor toon end, A shoolder o’ mutton and a croon ti spend. Are we downhearted? – No! Will we win? – Yes!”.

This chant is thought to survive from the days when itinerant traders used to visit the outskirts of the town and distribute gifts to the crowd to promote trade. It is thought that townspeople would take items to barter such as a shoulder of mutton or cash – a crown or ‘croon’ to spend.

Traditionally a New Year’s Day custom, Scrambling moved to the first shopping day of the year when January 1 became a public holiday and Driffield shops remained closed.

Matthew Brown, Driffield town clerk, said: “We are very excited that the time-honoured tradition of Scrambling is returning for 2025.

“It is generally acknowledged that New Year Scrambling is unique to Driffield and I am really proud we are able to continue this fantastic initiative.

“We will be setting off from the Railway Station at 9am and visiting local businesses throughout the town and singing the traditional chant.

“Scrambling is a unique event and brings people into the town and is something else for residents of Driffield to get involved with and, with the support of local businesses, this important Driffield tradition continues to thrive.”