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Town Regalia/Insignia

Welcome to the Town Regalia/Insignia page

The term "regalia" is all too often used to describe the maces, chains of office, badges, swords and other ceremonial possessions of local authorities, but the term is incorrectly used in this context. "Regalia" is defined as "the Crown, Sceptre, and the Cross, and other jewels and ornaments used at a Coronation". The term, which should be used to describe collectively the maces, badges and chains of office, swords, etc., apart from items of plate, etc., is "insignia".

The history of robes and gowns stretches back to biblical times where one of the earliest records of the use of robes as a symbol of authority appears in The Book of Exodus, Chapter 28, where God commanded the use of vestments for the priests. 

A booklet called "A Taste of Sudbury's History" has been compiled which includes photographs and descriptions of many of the towns Regalia/Insignia. 
If you would like to download a copy please click here

For a hard copy please contact The Mayor's Secretary on 01787 372331 or by email teresa.elford@sudburytowncouncil.co.uk

Below are the items of regalia/insignia owned by the Town of Sudbury

The Maces

Godfrey Tankard (or Sudbury Loving Cup)

Claret Jugs

Burke Tankard

Silver Cup

Town Seal

Ink Stand


Mayor's Chain of Office
Deputy Mayor's Chain of Office
Mayoress/Mayor's Consort's Chain of Office
Mayor's Robe
Deputy Mayor's Robe
Town Clerk's Robe and Wig


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