Bromsgrove Court Leet pays tribute to members in online meeting T
he Ancient Court Leet and Court Baron of the Manor of Bromsgrove held the Great Spring Court meeting online via the Zoom platform as the restrictions in place meant the usual venue, the New Guesten Hall at Avoncroft, couldn’t be used. During the pandemic, the Court has been keen to carry on with the usual calendar of events in the best way possible under the circumstances. Robes and regalia were worn by those who attended as the business of the Court was heard online. The Town Crier and Court Leet Bellman Kevin Ward opened the Court and the Chappelyn, Reverend Rayman Khan said a prayer. A moment of silence, accompanied by a presentation, was held in tribute to those members who had passed away in 2021. This year the Court has said good-bye to four long standing members. Gordon Jones, Bailiff 1982 (22.02.1927 – 26.01.21) aged 93, John Wesley Lock, Tythingman (13.11.1928 – 05.03.2021) aged 91, Michael Leonard Clements, Bailiff 1987 (22.02.1935 – 16.03.2021) aged 83 and Christopher Vandeleur Firminger, Bailiff 2006 and Marshal 2020 (01.12.1963 – 27.02.2021) aged 57. Members of the Court at the meeting raised a glass to toast their absent friends who were all thanked for their service and commitment to the Court and town. Condolences were expressed to the families.
Current Bailiff Joanne Slade said “It has been a very sad start to the year for the Court, and my thoughts are very much with the families who have lost loved ones. I was pleased we were able to hold our Great Spring Court meeting and pay our respects to the
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four members who have passed away this year. I am hopeful that we will be able to return to holding our events in person very soon, and we shall do this in memory of those who are no longer with us.” The meeting continued with the Foreman of the Jury reporting on the activities of the Jurors and the Headborough called the Tythingmen to the Court and asked them to present their lists. Once all the business of the Court had been heard the Headborough closed the Court.
The traditional day for Court Leet Fair Day where the Royal Charter of 1199 is celebrated in the town falls on 26 June in 2021. The Court hopes to be able to carry out the colourful procession, the proclamation of the Charter and the assizes in the High Street on that day. Keep an eye on www.facebook.com/ CourtLeetBromsgrove for news and events.
