Colourful Court Leet Parade celebrations

TheColourful Court Leet parade brought the town to life on Saturday 24th June to celebrate the Royal Charter of 1199.

With the 16 strong Shirley Pipe Band playing the bagpipes, the Bailiff Robert Bird, led the Court Leet procession from Housman Hall, on the traditional route along Worcester Road where the crowds had started to form to see this historic annual event. The procession continued the length of Bromsgrove High Street where many residents and visitors to the town gathered to watch, taking photos and video as the group moved through.

There was a wonderfully joyous atmosphere in the town, created by the pipe band, vibrant parade and the high spirits of those who had gathered to see the traditional event. Members of the Court Leet were in full robes and regalia. The Bailiff in royal blue robes and the Reeve in purple robes both with chains of office and flanked by their pole bearers. Followed by Officers of the Court in green robes, Ealdormen in red robes and Tythingmen in blue robes - some carrying the ceremonial poles. The Lord of the Manor joined the parade in top hat and tails, ladies of the Court joined wearing brightcoloured dresses and hats and members of visiting Courts paraded in their robes. The Chairman of the Council Ms Sam Ammar was seen wearing her chains of office, walking alongside the town’s MP the Right Honorable Sajid Javid and other guests.

The procession halted briefly at the Old Post Office for an assize of ale, continued past the themed street market and came to a stop at the Housman Statue, which had been remounted on the plinth just two days previously. At the statue the Bailiff proclaimed the Charter of 1199 granting a fair so the people “might take holiday on that day.”

Officers of the Court gave the assizes of bread, ale, brooks and meat where the Carnitor sampled Butcher’s Block creation the Boyden Pie which has been created in honour of BBC Radio Presenter and

Of the day, the Bailiff commented “There was a real sense of home-town pride in Bromsgrove today. I’m proud that the Court Leet continues to uphold our ancient and unique traditions. The markets were excellent and I hope that the stalls and all the businesses in the town were well supported by the many people who attended to enjoy the traditional parade and ceremonies.”

For more photos and information visit www.facebook.com/CourtLeetBromsgrove