Years ago in Preston town,

They used to trade and barter.

When good King Henry heard of this,

He said they’ll need a charter.

So up he trekked frae London town,
Wi,’ robe and crown best dressed.
And when he’d had a look around,

He wasn’t half impressed

He said I’ll grant thee tha’s worked hard
A gradely town to build.

And so I’ll grant thee once a year

To hold a Preston Guild.

Well t’mayor he was a skinflint said
It’ll cost a hundred groat.
And t’coffers will be empty
So twenty’s what I thought.

So that were it decided
A score years in between.

With everyone invited,

Including t’King and Queen

The streets they all had parties,

And lots of grand processions.

From Sunday schools and churches
And tradesmen and professions.

So every Guild from then to now

Our townsfolks properthrilled
That scrolls are sent around the world,
To herald Preston Guild