Historic Ryde Society

‘Giving Ryde’s Past to the Future’

Historic Ryde Society Quiz Night Thursday 28 September 2023 at Yelf's Hotel, at 7p.m. for 7.30pm.

Brand New Treasure – Mayor’s Chain

New badge on Mayor's new chain of office
New badge on Mayor’s new chain of office

History was made in Ryde at the Ryde Town Council meeting on Monday, November 1, 2010, when the Mayor was presented with his new regalia. Historic Ryde Society is delighted that the design for the chain has been inspired by the wonderful serpents on Ryde pier – which the Mayor has christened Bertie and Vicky……… which are also the inspiration for our logo.

There has long been a debate in the town, over the fact that Ryde’s former regalia is on permanent display at the Guildhall Museum in Newport. This belonged to Ryde Borough Council, and was handed over for safe-keeping to Medina after the local Government reorganisation. One of our members, Jeff Please, decided enough was enough and commissioned local jewellers, G & M Jewellery, to create a new chain for the Mayor. This was presented to the present incumbent, Cllr Brian Harris, at the meeting last week, when his consort and cadet also received a badge of office, with the deputy mayor’s badge of office to follow.

Ward crest on the Mayoral regalia
Ward crest on the Mayoral regalia

There are more pictures of the new regalia on the Ryde Treasures Gallery page here. We look forward to seeing Councillor Harris around and about sporting this wonderful chain of office.

Return to Ryde Treasures page