Most people would not relish being woken at 7am on a bank holiday – except in Helston.

The May Day walk through the town by Helston Town Band is a fondly held tradition that sees residents roused from their beds to the strains of the Flora Dance.

Usually held exactly a week before Flora Day, with this year’s event falling early this morning was an exciting reminder that the big day is just this Saturday.

Despite the grey skies and some rain, dedicated members of the band - and a good number of their supporters - turned out in force to take part, leaving the Guildhall at the stroke of 7am and making their way up Meneage Street.

At the junction with The Parade, the procession turned around and returned back down the street, continuing along Wendron Street, Penrose Road, Church Street and Cross Street before heading through Tanyard Lane to Lady Street.

There was just time for a circle of the bowling green before heading back up Coinagehall Street to the Guildhall again.

This route will be repeated at 7pm, when those unable to tear themselves from their beds this morning get a second chance to watch.

Traditionally, many more spectators line the streets at this time, with supporters often joining in to dance behind.

This year marks a return to a proper route for the procession, following last year’s confusion over road closures.

A group of volunteers has now got together to make sure everything is in place to keep the custom going for years to come.