KNOCK ON EFFECT: One of the ancient traditions associated with Christmas and the New Year was again celebrated on Twelfth Night in the rural village of Llansoy, in the Parish of Llanfihangel Tor-y-Mynydd, not far from Usk - it was the tenth year running since the custom was revived by villagers, eager to preserve their heritage.

Essentially, the Mari Lwyd means Grey Mare (as in nightmare!), which is a horse's skull mounted upon a wooden pole and its large eye-holes stuffed with wadding until they bulged forward. The head is decorated with ribbons and the pole draped with a long, white sheet.

Nowadays, a group of men visit households in the village with a plastic head requesting hospitality, as is the Welsh custom.

They knock on each door and sing in Welsh, those within the house (the rectory included) respond, and eventually welcome their guests.

Since its revival, the Isca Morrismen have taken part in the festivities every year with singing, dancing and merriment - and, naturally, the downing' of fine ales from the local hostelry, The Star.

The Mari Lwyd continues to enrich contemporary life and celebrates a time-honoured rite practised by our forefathers down many centuries.

Long may it continue.

by Dr Gareth D John