THERE will be plenty of merriment in Bromsgrove on Saturday, June 20, when the much-loved annual Fair Day takes place.
This time-honoured event brings the community together. It relives centuries-old customs and enjoy a festive atmosphere.
Court members will be on hand to speak with visitors, answer questions and share insights into the organisation’s unique traditions and responsibilities.
Fair Day celebrates the Royal Charter granted by King John in 1199. It allows Bromsgrove to hold a market and ‘take holiday’ on Midsummer’s Day, the feast of the town’s patron saint, St John the Baptist.
Fair Day is now held on the Saturday closest to Midsummer’s Day. The event features the traditional procession of Bromsgrove Court Leet members and visiting dignitaries from Court Leets in the neighbouring towns. These include Alcester, Henley in Arden and Warwick, along with consorts and guests.
The parade begins at Housman Hall on Kidderminster Road at 10.30am and concludes at the Housman Statue on the High Street.
There, the Bailiff, Robert Spittle, will proclaim the Charter granted by King John. The Court will also undertake its traditional duties to ensure goods for sale in the town are of high quality. These include ale, bread, leather and flesh (meat).
And there will be a themed street market on the Argos end of the High Street hosting charity and community group stalls with the traders dressed in traditional costume.
Mr Spittle is looking forward to meeting visitors on Fair Day.
He said: “We welcome individuals who are interested in learning about our historic organisation to come along and speak to us on Fair Day.
“Perhaps visitors are interested in understanding how the Court operates, or maybe they would like to find out more about joining the Court.
“Everyone is welcome to celebrate the town’s heritage with us.”
Recognising Court Leet members
Positions within the Court can be recognised by the coloured robes worn by the members.
The Bailiff wears a blue robe with faux fur trim and a bicorn hat.
The Reeve also wears a bicorn hat and a purple robe.
Members who have served as Bailiff to the Court are Ealdormen wearing red robes.
Jurors, the officers of the Court, yet to be Bailiff, wear green robes. Tythingmen are in blue robes. The Headborough wears a red coat and top hat. The Market Master wears a brown robe and the Bellman wears green and silver with a tricorn hat.
Anyone interested in joining the Court should, in the first instance, chat with a member of the Court Leet about the different roles, what is involved and the commitment expected from members.
Visit: bromsgrovecourtleet.co.uk or follow @CourtLeetBromsgrove on Facebook for more information.
