Residents of Colchester now have the opportunity to apply for the ceremonial title of Freeburgess.
The application form can be downloaded from www.colchester.gov.uk/freeburgess. Applications will be accepted until 5pm on Wednesday, 26 March, ahead of the upcoming ceremony on Tuesday, 8 April. During the event, Colchester’s Mayor, Councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell, will officially confer the title.
The Freeburgess designation is a ceremonial honour with origins in the 1189 Royal Charter issued by Richard the Lionheart. It is open to any eligible Colchester resident.
Applicants must meet one of two criteria to qualify: they must either have completed a seven-year apprenticeship under a member of the Guild of Master Craftsman who also holds the Freeburgess title, or they must have a parent or grandparent with Freeburgess status.
Over 400 trades and crafts are recognised for eligibility. These range from traditional skills such as cabinet making, tree surgery, and coffin making to more contemporary professions like aluminium fabrication and asbestos removal.
Councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell, Mayor of Colchester, said: “I encourage all residents who meet the qualification criteria to apply for Freeburgess status. It will be an honour to welcome successful applicants to the ceremony at Colchester’s Town Hall.
“While this title is purely ceremonial, it plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating our town’s rich heritage.”
For additional information about the Mayor and the historical significance of the Town Hall, please visit www.colchester.gov.uk/mayor.
Page last reviewed: 29 January 2025