Agenda item

Charter Trustees considered a report of the Clerk to Charter Trustees that informed Trustees of a request from the Mayor’s Bodyguard for contribution to costs for the supply of covers for Halberds and a case for the Mayoral Mace (for copy see file of minutes).

The Clerk to Charter Trustees advised that concerns had been expressed regarding accidental damage to Halberds and the Mayoral Mace whilst in transit from Durham Town Hall to venues. The Mayor confirmed that as the work was to the benefit of the protection of the Mayoral Regalia, approved a contribution of the full amount of £490.00. The Clerk added that he was waiting for confirmation that the work had been completed in order to arrange payment.

It was Councillor Holland’s understanding that damage to the Halberds occurred during transportation by taxi and felt that the issue was the result of having no security and trusting items of significant value with taxi drivers. Councillor Blakey added that to her knowledge, items always had security and were transported by County Council chauffeur.

Councillor Holland had been asked by the Bodyguard to raise an issue regarding the longstanding tradition of members of the bodyguard processing to the cathedral with halberds which had been restricted following a risk assessment that highlighted health and safety concerns. He requested that the pretence of health and safety not prevent a tradition that has existed for generations.

The Clerk advised that he had consulted with the secretary of the Bodyguard and that the significant health and safety concerns arose from individuals walking to the cathedral in full regalia when not in ceremony. He added that it was important to be mindful of the insurance aspect and the personal safety of individuals. Councillor Holland felt that a centuries old tradition had been taken away and added that to his recollection, there had never been an incident. He advised that the Bodyguard would be prepared to cover insurance costs themselves.

Councillor Conway commented that the key issue was regarding individuals who were not part of a formal procession walking to events on their own, which could detract from the overall image, he requested assurance that the Bodyguard, when moving in their traditional role of protecting the Mayor, would continue to process with their halberds as a group.

The Clerk clarified that the Bodyguard would continue to walk in a formal procession and that the issue was with individuals carrying their halberds when walking separately, which could attract unwanted attention with a risk of theft or personal injury.

The Mayor suggested that a protocol be drawn up following discussions with the Mayor’s Bodyguard.

Resolved:

i)     That the information contained in the report be noted;

ii)    That the clerk review and if possible draft a protocol that would cover the issue of Bodyguard members carrying equipment from Town Hall to the cathedral.