Barnstaple Beadles Receive New Uniforms

Thursday 07th of June 2007 12:58:42 AM

For the first time in 70 years, the beadles of Barnstaple, UK, will be receiving new uniforms. Damage done to the uniforms can no longer be repaired after generations of wear by past beadles. "The collars for the new jackets have been made from scratch and there are also brand new red silk waistcoats. All the braiding and embellishments - such as the solid silver buttons and badges featuring the Barnstaple crest - have been carefully transferred onto the new outfits. The new uniforms have been re-modelled slightly, and the work involved a lot of careful measuring to ensure the dimensions were exactly the same," said Michelle Watkin, who designed the new uniforms.

Beadles have for many years accompanied the Mayor and other officials to public events, so being presentable is very important. "Our primary role is to protect the chain first, then the Mayor. We have the privilege of cleaning the solid gold Mayoral chain which dates back to 1911, as well as the Consort's chain which dates back to 1826," said Chris Hammett.

Beadles also unlock the Guildhall for special events and help brew the ale for the Barnstaple fair. "It's a role that takes me all over Devon as well as many other events around the country," said George Lovering.

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