Independent Hay-on-Wye
Many of you know that Hay-On-Wye is famous for its multiplicity of bookshops but did you know that we have our own King who lives in the castle in Hay? The story begins long ago (in 1977 actually) when the booktown founder, Richard Booth, decided that action must be taken to revitalise Hay, ensure the livelihood of its inhabitants and restore the town to its former prosperity. Independence seemed to be the only solution.
The Declaration of Independence was made in December 1977 and the town celebrated with a party and fireworks.
When King Richard, resplendent in his royal robes with crown, orb and sceptre, made from an old ball-cock and copper piping, was afterwards asked whether he was serious, his reply was:"Of course not - but it's more serious than real politics..!"
The enormous advantage that independence gave to the population of Hay was the opportunity to give everyone a top Government or Civil Service job. Someone whom one met in a pub could five minutes later become Home Secretary; the Minister for Social Security was appointed in a second having the highly relevant experience of being unemployed for six years and a strong Scottish accent became the prerequisite for the Minister for Scottish Affairs. All cheerfully agreed to bear the heavy load of responsibility placed upon them.
Today, 24 years later, Hay is a thriving community with more than 30 bookshops and is known internationally as the first Town Of Books. Since April 2000 we have had our own House of Lords, the investiture of which was held in the State Room at the castle where 21 Hereditary Peers of the Kingdom of Hay were created. The Hay Peerage is available to all today with Richard Booth The King of Hay, conferring Dukedoms; Earldoms; Baronies and Knighthoods, at minimal cost and with very little fuss.
Long Live the Spirit of Independent Hay!
Historical details extracted from "Independence For Hay" by Richard Booth.
(Published 22nd Oct 2014)
