Rye Town Councillors are to get new robes following a decision at the town hall on Monday 8 June. The new gowns will cost between £7000 and £8000 which will be covered using unused mayoral expenses and a generous donation from former Mayor and Mayoress Andy and Niki Stuart.
The robes have been a long-running controversy, with the current ones described as shabby, threadbare and beyond repair. Councillors unanimously approved the decision to order 14 new gowns.
“Members of the public comment on the state of them,” said clerk Amy Head. “I know it’s a contentious issue but the new ones will make us look so much better.”
“The state of the robes is going to keep coming back again and again,” said Councillor Stuart. “These new ones will last a very long time and there’s no cost to the town.”
He noted how Rye will hold the speakership of the Cinque Ports Confederation in 2027, the first time in 14 years. “It will be a great opportunity to showcase Rye internationally. We can make it a great day if we plan it properly.”
Councillors thanked Andy and Niki for their donation. “The best possible outcome,” said Councillor Creaser. “A terrific offer,” said Councillor Hughes. “A really generous offer,” said Mayor Chris Hoggart, leading applause for the former mayor and mayoress.
Whilst the gowns will be replaced, concerns were also expressed about the state of the councillor’s official hats and the need to ensure the new robes were kept properly to avoid fading.
Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Stuart explained why he and Niki had made the donation. “We were left some money by my 99-year-old aunt Frances, who died last year. Everyone knew her as Kewpie and whilst she lived in Suffolk she loved coming to Rye for the Arts Festival. She very much enjoyed Rye’s quaint charms and strange ceremonies!”
Image Credits: James Stewart .