In accordance with ancient tradition, the Mayoring Ceremony took place on Easter Monday and the new Mayor, David Merrifield, was duly installed.
The swearing in took place in the Court Hall as tradition demands and in order to make the rest of the Ceremony accessible to all Town residents, this was held in St Thomas’ Church.
Approximately 180 guests and residents attended, including the Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, the High Sheriff of East Sussex, our Member of Parliament and the Mayors of three head ports of the Confederation of Cinque Ports.
During the Ceremony the new Deputy Mayor, Peter Cosstick, was appointed, and the new Freeman, Ian Kingham, was sworn in, as was the new Sergeant at Mace, Josephine Melvin. Jo Melvin takes on this role following the retirement, after many years’ loyal service, of Eric Streeton.
In addition to the Mayor, David Merrifield, the Jurats and Trustees of Winchelsea Corporation for the coming year will be: Peter Cosstick (Deputy Mayor), Tony Moore, Mike Melvin, John Rodley, David Page, Robert Holland, Carol Scoines, Berni Scott, Rosemarie Roberts, Stephen King (Treasurer) and John Clarke.
The Ceremony was followed by two receptions and David and Sandra would like to thank all those who helped make the event a great success.
Photo: Tim Nathan, Media25Studio
