York City Fayre

The day that I took you to York City fair
The sunshine the laughter we hadn't a care
The flags and the bunting the stalls and the carts
The cries of the hawkers all gladdened our hearts

We marched along gladly lads out on a spree
I carried the favour you'd given to me
The ribbon you'd worn to tie up your hair
The day that I took you to York City fair

We formed up in lines, stared out across the field
And the sun glanced and glimmered on helmets and shields
The banners flew gayly and the shouts on the air
All carried me back to York City fair

For a moment I stood there bewildered and still
Then an order was given we rushed for the hill
The cries and the fury the pain and the fear
Would I ever again see York City dear

Now the stunned and the weary limp home to find rest
And I finger the ribbon tucked close to my chest
Will the clamour the scene the stench ever fade
Will I find my way back to my York City maid

Come a day when the sun shines on bonnets not helms
When we walk arm in arm under York City's elms
When with pleasure I buy you new ribbons to wear
Come a day when I take you to York City fair