It’s almost time for the new Mock Mayor of Barton to spread his wings, as the honour has been bestowed on Martin Henshaw (77) an ex RAF man who has devoted much of his time to helping the wider community of Gloucester, writes Martin Kirby.
The role of Mock Mayor dates back to the restoration of the Monarchy in 1660.
King Charles II reduced the size of Gloucester as a form of ‘punishment’ for the city supporting Oliver Cromwell’s Parliamentary forces against his father in the famous siege of Gloucester in 1643, ordering the city’s walls to be demolished.
This left the parish of Barton St Mary outside the city and without a Mayor to defer to, so residents of the area decided to create their own Mayor and the job was given to the person who the residents decided had been the biggest fool throughout the previous year. The tradition survives, although these days it goes to someone who has helped to improve their community.
The Mayor making ceremony is part of the larger Gloucester Day commemoration, and Mr Henshaw is only too happy to play a part in this firmly established event, seeing it as a way to put something back into the community.
Martin’s life has been shaped by movement, service, and deep community commitment.
A true “Service Brat”, he spent the first 47 years of his life living around the world, first with his parents, and then through an overseas banking career, during which he met and married his wife, Dot, in 1970.
Martin joined the Royal Air Force in 1972 and served for 24 years, returning to RAF Innsworth on three occasions during that time, and developing a lasting connection with Gloucester.
After taking redundancy in 1996, he settled in Longlevens and began building strong roots in the city through membership of the Rotary Club, acting as a Cathedral guide, and giving dedicated support to veterans.
A proud supporter of local schools, community meals, and festive events, at which he is often seen in the role of Father Christmas, Martin – a husband, father, and grandfather – said he “feels privileged” to be appointed to serve as Mock Mayor of Barton and will do everything possible to uphold this Historic – if eccentric – tradition.
The festivities kick off at 11.00 am on Saturday September 5 with the Mayor of Barton’s parade, culminating with the Mock Mayor of Barton meeting the City’s official Mayor – always a fun and cheeky encounter.
The afternoon sees yet another parade, this one celebrating Gloucester Day, an annual celebration of the time in 1643, when the City stood against the full might of King Charles I and his army, suffering 26 days of constant pounding until September 5, when the siege was lifted – hence Gloucester becoming known as “The City saved by God”.
The parade includes veterans of the armed forces along with cadets, representatives of the emergency services and charitable organisations, historical re-enactors and many others, all marching proudly through the city.
This year The Sealed Knot Society will be putting on a living history display behind St Mary De Crypt between 10.00am to 4.00pm and for lovers of ‘big bangs’ they will give an Ordnance display at 3pm.
There will be stalls in all four Gate Streets, and music and children’s activities at the Folk in Westgate Street.
