Brightlingsea Choosing Day

Choosing Day takes place every December in Brightlingsea at All Saints Church, on the first Monday following  St Andrews Day, and it has a heritage dating back at least to the mid sixteenth century.  The Mayor of Sandwich has a Deputy at Brightlingsea and Choosing Day is when the Deputy is installed for the year; expect a colourful procession of all the dignitaries in their regalia, who arrive as  the church bells are rung. Oaths of loyalty are sworn by the new Deputy and by any New Inhabitants of the town who have been resident for  a year and a day – they then become Recognised Inhabitants. Fees are paid in old money, short readings given, Freemen of the Town are elected and there is a short religious service.

Helpful Hints

St Andrews Day is on 30th of November so the Monday after is always the first Monday in December (this is easier for modern readers as we are less used to remembering feast days of saints than our forebears!).

In 2024 it should be held on Monday December 2nd.

Click here for the All Saints website : http://www.allsaintswithstjamesb-sea.co.uk/

and here for the Cinque Ports link: http://www.cinqueportliberty.co.uk

Thanks to Roger Tabor for the splendid heading photo!