Flitch of bacon custom sites and the Dunmow flitch is referred to in Chaucer. The awarding of a flitch at both sites seems to have been an exceedingly rare event. The Dunmow tradition was revived in Victorian times, largely inspired by a book ("The Flitch of Bacon") by William Harrison Ainsworth. Flitch trials are still held in modern times at Great Dunmow. A counsel is employed to cross-examine the nominated couples and attempt to show they are undeserving of the award. There is evidence that the flitch of bacon tradition existed outside Britain in mainland Europe and some would push its origins back as
O What a Savior and gave His life-blood,<br> To make the vilest sinner clean. O what a Savior, O hallelujah!<br> His heart was broken on Calvary,<br> His hands were nail scarred,<br> His side was riven,<br> He gave His life-blood for even me. Death's chilly waters I'll soon be crossing,<br> His hand will lead me safe o're,<br> I'll join the chorus in that bright city,<br> And sing up there forever more. O what a Savior, O hallelujah!<br> His heart was broken on Calvary,<br> His hands were nail scarred,<br> His side was riven,<br> He gave His life-blood for even me. O What a Savior "O What