Pageant recreates Kidderminster charter history (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Pageant recreates Kidderminster charter history

10:29am Friday 5th August 2011 in News

KIDDERMINSTER went back to the days just before the Civil War to commemorate a landmark event in its history.

The 375th anniversary of the granting of the town’s charter by King Charles I was marked by a pageant involving the arrival of the King and a royal messenger at the town hall.

Sealed Knot re-enactors presented a copy of the charter to Mayor, Councillor Anne Hingley.

They paraded through the streets with local children who made their own costumes of the period at a special workshop.

After handing the charter to Kidderminster town clerk Charles Talbot, the town crier proclaimed the document and its contents to a large crowd who had gathered outside the town hall.

Many entered into the spirit of the occasion by cheering “God Save The King” as the royal proclamation was read out from the town hall steps and again as the Mayor responded with an acknowledgement of the King’s actions.

The event was organised by the Kidderminster Heritage Opportunities Committee which also laid on a market and refreshments in the Corn Exchange.

A 32-page commemorative booklet outlining the history and significance of the 1636 charter is available for £1 at the town hall, Kidderminster Hub, John Beard Ironmongers, Painters Solicitors and all Kidderminster district councillors.

Another charter event is planned for Saturday, September 17 when a mock skirmish will be held in the grounds of St mary’s Church.

There will also be demonstrations of musket drill, arms and armour, and market stalls.