SOUTH SOMERSET NEWS: Town council looks to appoint a Mace Bearer

CHARD Town Council is looking for someone to attend civic and ceremonial events and to carry out the duties of Mace Bearer.

The post upholds a long tradition of civic pride and dignity and this should be reflected in the personality and appearance of the Mace Bearer whose duties will require a strong sense of duty, together with tact and courtesy.

A council spokesman said: “The post holder plays a key role in the ceremonial activities of the council including call to order certain meetings of council to stand as the Mayor is brought into the council chamber, supporting the Mayor and carrying the ceremonial Mace at events where full mayoral ceremonial robes are worn.

“In addition, hosting or taking part in visits to schools and other organisations to provide talks on the history of the mayoralty, its importance to the Town and to positively promote the function.

“This role is to attend engagements and support and advise the Mayor, help them put on the ceremonial robes and assist with keeping the chains of office and mace secure.”

Ideally suitable candidates should have experience of working in the Military or Civilian Services as they will be expected to deal with matters ensuring compliance with the council’s civic protocols.

PHOTO – RIGHT: The Mayor of Chard, Cllr Dave Bulmer, needs to appoint a Mace Bearer for civic and ceremonial occasions.

“It is important that you can demonstrate a positive and, at times, diplomatic approach,” added the council spokesman. “You should preferably have experience of either delivering presentations or talks to groups of people or the public.

“The post holder will be required to wear a uniform whilst on duty and to maintain a smart and clean appearance. An ability to work with a wide range of people including members of the public, councillors and dignitaries courteously and respectfully is essential.”

The successful applicant will need to be enthusiastic, willing to learn and able to work in a flexible manner.  The post requires the ability to be available unsocial hours including evenings, weekends and public holidays. You will need good communication and interpersonal skills and be able to work with authoritative supervision.

The council has invited written submissions from candidates who consider they have the necessary qualities and skills to carry out this role and feel they would be suitable to be the authority’s appointed Mace Bearer.

Details of two referees should also be included with the written application but will only be followed up if an offer of appointment is made.

The closing date for applications is Friday, July 31, 2015, and interviews will be held during the evening of Monday, August 10, 2015, from 6pm.

Applications should be sent to Chard Town Council, The Guildhall, Fore Street, Chard, Somerset.

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