It's Yorkshire Day today, Friday August 1st, a date that never fails to stir pride in anyone who lives in “God's own county”.

And villagers have even more reason to be proud as our very own Ripon Hornblower, Adrian 'Gunner' Mardon, will be sounding the horn by the obelisk in Ripon Market Square at 9 p.m. tonight.

'Gunner' is one of four Hornblowers who take it in turns to sound the horn, a practice that has been in existence since 886 AD when Alfred the Great granted a Royal Charter to the city. It is one of the oldest and longest unbroken traditions in England with the horn being sounded every night since the charter was established.

But this evening 'Gunner' will not be doing it alone.

To celebrate Yorkshire Day, all four Hornblowers together will be sounding the horn, a very rare occurence, and therefore one that will be a privilege to watch.

The weather forecast is for a generally cloudy day, but for a couple of hours from 7 p.m., the sun is meant to put in an appearance. No excuse, therefore, not to go along, watch this ancient ceremony and support 'Gunner'.

A ceremony that attracts many, many tourists throughout the year, but one which we are fortunate enough to have on our own doorstep.

Happy Yorkshire Day everyone.