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'Worcester's rich civic traditions are embodied in its historic regalia'
ONE of the most visible aspects of being mayor of Worcester is when you are involved in formal civic events.
On a few memorable occasions the mayor parades 'in state' through the centre, usually from the Guildhall to Worcester Cathedral.
Examples include Remembrance Sunday in November and the civic service held last weekend in the beautiful surroundings of the cathedral which marked the formal start of the civic year.
On these occasions the mayor will dress in formal gowns and parade with councillors, other mayors, city judges, members of parliament, members of the House of Lords and other dignitaries.
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It is a spectacular sight, especially as the mayor is accompanied by the sword-bearer and mace bearers.
Residents and tourists, who enjoy the pomp and spectacle of these special occasions, often ask who these figures are and what they do?
Worcester's rich civic traditions are embodied in its historic regalia with each item steeped in symbolism and ceremony.
The Sword of State, granted by King James I in 1621, is a powerful emblem of mayoral authority.
Though it was stolen in 1651 and remade in 1657, the sword continues to lead major civic processions today.
In 1698 the royal arms of William III were added and it was refurbished in 1996 to preserve its splendour.
The role of sword-bearer, created alongside the sword in 1621, carries its own prestige.
The bearer wears the cap of maintenance, a rare honour once granted by the pope to European monarchs, and now held by only seven UK cities.
Worcester's cap, decorated with three ostrich feathers possibly linked to Prince Arthur who is buried in the cathedral, symbolises high civic honour.
Tradition once entitled the bearer to collect free eggs and a halfpenny per salmon sold at the old fish market.
The city's four civic maces, originally weapons favoured by clergy, have been used in Worcester since 1461 as symbols of authority.
The current silver set was purchased in 1760 after the originals were sold. Carried by four mace bearers, the maces rest crown-up on the right shoulder to indicate the devolved authority of the crown.
When the monarch is present, they are reversed crown-down on the left.
Together, these ceremonial items reflect Worcester's deep-rooted civic identity, shaped by centuries of history, tradition and pride.
