Derbyshire has for centuries been a mecca for tourists attracted by the beautiful Peak District scenery and famous stately homes like Chatsworth and Haddon. What the tourists sometimes miss are the surprising amounts of strange goings-on that happen in some of the more tucked away rural locations ? everything from hen racing to naked boy racing. Derbyshire folk can be an obstinate and taciturn breed, and even within living memory we can find examples of villagers who have ventured no further afield than Derby. But why would you need to venture any further when you have such a wealth of odd events and curious happenings on your doorstep? AUTHOR: Richard Bradley researches, attends and documents Derbyshire's folklore and calendar customs. He writes a monthly article on local folklore for Derbyshire Life magazine and his the author of three local history books: Secret Chesterfield, Secret Matlock & Matlock Bath and Chesterfield In 50 Buildings. He lives in Sheffield. 60 b/w illustrations
