Several decades ago (or even centuries ago), December 21st was known as St Thomas’ day, where certain women and children (strict eligibility) would go around to the wealthy (farmers, landowners, businessmen etc) in their communities and be given gifts or ‘doles’ of money or food. The tradition was known as Thomasing or gooding.
It is a shame that some of our customs and traditions have given way to a modern selfish society; communities are no longer what they used to be (I will always blame Thatcher). People should not have to feel the need to beg but those who are in a certain position should feel their social responsibility. It is the season to think of those who are not as fortunate as yourself.
All we ses is please we’ve cum a-Thomasing, remember St Thomas’s Day.
Jason E Cooper 