Gloucester City Council has rejected a proposal to seek sponsorship funding for its historic civic roles of mayor and sheriff amid concerns over commercializing these centuries-old positions. Dating back to the 1200s, and established by a 1483 charter under Richard III, Gloucester’s mayoralty and shrievalty remain symbols of the city’s heritage.
The Conservative group suggested exploring grants and sponsorship to ensure the roles become cost-neutral during ongoing local government reorganization, which may see the city council abolished. However, council leader Jeremy Hilton voiced opposition, warning sponsorship could undermine the dignity of the offices, dubbing the idea a risk of producing a “McDonald’s mayor.”
Hilton emphasized the importance of keeping civic roles publicly funded: “I don’t want to see it funded by so-and-so local businesses. Sponsored by Malvern Tyres or somebody else? We don’t want that sort of nonsense.” He advocated for the “Greater Gloucester option” in local government reform to better protect the traditions.
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Meanwhile, Councillor Stephanie Chambers clarified that sponsorship would not involve overt advertising such as branded gowns, but more modest support like raffle gifts at mayoral events to help cover costs. She urged the council to consider all options to keep these roles financially viable without compromising their ceremonial importance.
Contrasting views emerged from Councillor Tree Chambers-Dubus, who expressed misgivings about involving betting firms or retailers as sponsors. She humorously suggested, “Maybe we could be sponsored by Krispy Kreme [Doughnuts],” but emphasized that the roles should not be commercialized or trivialized.
Ultimately, the council amended the motion to exclude any reference to sponsorship, ensuring Gloucester’s civic offices remain funded by public means, preserving the dignity of these historic positions.