AN ancient tradition marking out the boundaries of Lammas Land takes place next Sunday (May 17).

Ten Thegns, who are traditionally responsible for ensuring no-one is murdered during the walk, are elected before the stroll around Leyton Marshes.

Participants are also urged to bring ribbons and flowers to decorate wands made of willow, which will be stripped and dressed over lunch at the Hare and Hounds in Lea Bridge Road, Leyton.

Parents can also allow their children to be held upside down and have their heads bumped on a marker.

Katy Andrews, of the New Lammas Land Defence Committee, said: "Beating the bounds has very ancient roots and meanings, often to do with fertility rituals, which we explain as we walk round.

"But nowadays the custom is mainly an opportunity for a pleasant stroll round the marshes while learning about our local history and wildlife."

Stout footware is required and the route is not appropriate for wheelchairs or buggies.

The walk starts with lunch at noon before the three and a half mile walk starts at the Waterworks Visitor Centre at 2pm and ends there at around 4.30pm.

For information call 0790 415 9398.