Don't Walk Under That Ladder

Footloose women who are looking for love should keep their eyes peeled when they step out of the door on St Valentine's Day.

According to custom, the first bird you see foretells the sort of man you will marry.

If it's a blackbird, then your husband will be spiritual, those who see a robin will meet a seafaring man, and if you spot a sparrow then you could end up getting wed to a farmer.

But if you want to stay single, look out for a woodpecker – because it means you will not marry anyone over the next year.

This is just one of the fascinating superstitions which social historian Brian Jones has come across in the course of his research into "the history of real people".

Brian, who is a Peterborough tour guide, has unearthed a host of strange customs, many of which have their roots in our pagan past. Full Story

Related: religion, wicca, pagan