In the heart of Ashbourne, Derbyshire, lies a tradition that transcends time and embodies the spirit of community and history. The Royal Shrovetide Football game, a spectacle dating back centuries, is a testament to the town’s enduring legacy and the fervor of its inhabitants.
Amidst the throngs of players and spectators, a quiet artist, Tim Baker, weaves his magic on a canvas unlike any other – a massive, cork-filled ball destined for royal hands. As the future King Charles III – then Prince of Wales – prepared to partake in the age-old tradition of “turning the ball up,” Tim’s meticulous artwork awaited its royal debut.
The year was 2003, a momentous occasion etched in Tim’s memory as he handed over the intricately painted ball to the royal heir. “All the nerves we had that day just melted away because he was such a great person to be with,” Tim reminisces, reflecting on the surreal encounter with royalty.
For over a decade, Tim had dedicated his craft to adorning the Shrovetide footballs with images that narrated the lives of those bestowed with the honor of initiating the game. It was a tradition passed down to him by the game’s secretary, a familiar face who also doubled as his milkman, back in 1991.
Every stroke of Tim’s brush carried with it the weight of history and tradition, as he delicately captured the essence of the future monarch’s life on the spherical canvas. From the towering buildings to intricate details, each element had to align perfectly on the curved surface, ensuring a seamless portrayal of the royal legacy.
The Royal Shrovetide Football game itself is a spectacle unlike any other, where rival teams – the Up’Ards and Down’Ards – battle it out to move the ball across town over two intense days. Amidst the chaos and camaraderie, Tim’s artwork stands as a fleeting symbol of craftsmanship and dedication, only to be washed away in the heat of the game within hours.
As a non-participant in the game itself, Tim’s passion lies in preserving the tradition and history that define Royal Shrovetide Football. Working at the Historical Centre in Ashbourne, he finds solace in the rich tapestry of stories woven into the fabric of the game.
Each year, as the town gears up for the spectacle, Tim immerses himself in the painstaking process of painting the Wednesday ball, a labor of love that demands over 50 hours of meticulous work. From bulls’ heads to horses, each motif tells a story, connecting the past with the present in a vibrant display of artistry.
Despite the ephemeral nature of his creations – destined to be erased by the fervor of the game – Tim’s dedication remains unwavering. The legacy of his artistry, intertwined with the
