Location: Bungay, Suffok (although created by Norfolk Folklore Society)
Year / Period Created 2025 / 2026
Is your Giant or Beast still active or has it retired?
Still active
Description: Made by the Norfolk Folklore Society from as many reclaimed materials as possible. The Lantern Man carries a giant Lantern. Jack has legs which are attached to the puppeteer and move with him. The mermaid has a huge tail which stretches out behind her and is moved back and forth by a puppeteer.
What was the first event the Giant/Beast attended?
Bungay Black Shuck Festival 2025
Any tales of outings/visits/strange and wonderful occurrences or special memories that should go down in History
I think for us it’s the faces of people as we pass. Just so full of joy and awe. Sometimes a little scared as well.
How is it stored? In a van conversion workshop
What can you tell us about how it is carried and by who? Each giant has a core person with attendants. At the 2026 Bungay Black Shuck Festival the carriers were as follows: Sheringham Mermaid: Siofra, Sally, Chloe and John. The Lantern Man: Simon and Dee. Jack Valentine: Ian, Hayley, Katie and Janine.
Maker / Creators
Norfolk Folklore Society: Siofra, Ian, Hayley, Chloe, Simon, Dee, Matt and Mae
Main image courtesy of: The Norfolk Folklore Society
Ref: 34 BFG
If you notice an error in this information, want to ask for additional details to be added or request the removal of any image or information, please contact us quoting the reference number above via email in the footer.
Sheringham Mermaid / Jack Valentine/ Lantern Man
Location: Bungay, Suffok (although created by Norfolk Folklore Society)
Year / Period Created
2025 / 2026
Description:
Made by the Norfolk Folklore Society from as many reclaimed materials as possible. The Lantern Man carries a giant Lantern. Jack has legs which are attached to the puppeteer and move with him. The mermaid has a huge tail which stretches out behind her and is moved back and forth by a puppeteer.
Is there is a folktale connected to your Giant or Beast?
There are three folk tales. You can read about them here:
The Sheringham Mermaid | Jack Valentine | Lantern Man
How is it stored?
In a van conversion workshop
What can you tell us about how it is carried and by who?
Each giant has a core person with attendants. At the 2026 Bungay Black Shuck Festival the carriers were as follows: Sheringham Mermaid: Siofra, Sally, Chloe and John. The Lantern Man: Simon and Dee. Jack Valentine: Ian, Hayley, Katie and Janine.
Ref: 34 BFG
If you notice an error in this information, want to ask for additional details to be added or request the removal of any image or information, please contact us quoting the reference number above via email in the footer.
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