0Date issued: 23 August 24
The Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, to raise a loyal toast.
The annual opening of Colchester's Oyster Fisheries will take place on Friday, 6 September, with a ceremony on the waters off Mersea.
The sailing barge The Hydrogen will set sail from Brightlingsea, carrying civic dignitaries including the Mayor and Mayoress of Colchester Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell and Jessica Scott-Boutell, High Steward of Colchester Sir Bob Russell, the Mayor of Brightlingsea Cllr John Carr, Deputy of the Cinque Port Liberty of Brightlingsea Mr Steven Archer and Colchester City Councillors.
The tradition dates back to 1540, and sees the Mayor, the Town Sergeant, and Colchester City Council's Chief Executive, don full regalia to mark the lifting of the first oysters of the season.
“It's a great honour to be part of this historic ceremony,” said the Mayor, “I'm looking forward to raising a toast to His Majesty The King and celebrating our wonderful Colchester Oysters.”
The Proclamation, an ancient tongue-twister, will be read by Chief Executive Pam Donnelly to officially declare the fisheries open for the season. The Mayor will then raise the loyal toast to His Majesty The King, which is accompanied by drinking gin and eating gingerbread.
The event will also feature a guest speaker, lunch, and music.
For more information on the Mayor and Town Hall heritage visit www.colchester.gov.uk/mayor
Page last reviewed: 23 August 2024