BROMSGROVE Court Leet carried out the traditional assizes in the town centre as part of the annual Heritage Open Days.
The Bailiff, Bellman and Officers of the Court gathered on the High Street to check out the products being offered by the town’s independent traders.
Picture by Phil Nokes. s
In by-gone days the officers of the Court Leet held positions such as Ale Taster, Searcher and Sealer of Leather, Carnitor of Flesh (meat) and Fish, Brook Looker and Bread-weigher.
Court Leet Officers would visit traders in the town to ensure their products were of good quality and their establishments run in an orderly manner – a role similar to today’s trading standards.
Any trader found to be selling substandard wears would be summoned to appear in front of the Bailiff at the Court Leet meeting and might be subject to a fine or punishment.
Picture by Phil Nokes. s
Today the Bromsgrove Court Leet exists to uphold the traditions of the town and support local businesses by re-enacting the customs of the past.
This year’s colourful and traditional ceremonies of assizes took place at the Bromsgrove Cobbler, Market Plaice Fish and Chips, The Red Lion, Phoenix Floorings and Bedrooms, Umberto Giannini Hairdressers and Brenda Killigrew’s Sewing Studio.
The Court also visited Jill’s Pantry and Sid’s Stall on Bromsgrove Markets where the Bellman (Town Crier) gave a cry to pay tribute to all the market traders of the town.
At the BirdBox the group visited the Severn Arts Travelling Music Bus.
Bailiff of the Court Leet Jo Slade said “It was a glorious sunny day and Bromsgrove was looking great with the busy markets, cafes and shops. In celebrating the ancient customs of the Court Leet we can use the traditions of the town to support local traders and businesses whilst putting on a show for the people in the High Street.”
