Dane Valley Cubs got the VIP treatment recently when they visited Congleton Town Hall for a tour and a closer look at Congleton’s history and Town Treasures.
Greeted with an ‘Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!’ and welcome by the Town Crier, Vicky Pulman, the Cubs then enjoyed a talk from Town Mayor Cllr Kay Wesley and Burgess Denis Murphy, including a quiz on the history of Congleton Town, its Charter and the various jobs that existed in 1272, like the Ale Taster and Catchpole.
The cubs then learned about the town council today, who is on it and what it is for, and watched a short film about the Town Hall and Treasures. There followed a close-up look at the Town Mace, Charter and Mayoral Chain, and a brief tour of the Town Hall, including a selection of interesting facts, from the secret tunnels to how the massive chandeliers in the Great Hall are cleaned.
A try-out of the Crier’s bell with a shout of ‘Oyez!’ and a photo-opportunity ‘as Mayor’ rounded off the visit.
The Cub’s Young Leader and Mayor’s Cadet Barney Mitcheson reflected: “I thought the tour of the town hall was exceptional, with interactive quizzes testing the cubs’ knowledge and educating them on the history of our impressive town! They took great interest in the story of the town bear, and all wanted to hold the mace!”
The town hall team is offering visits to any other youth or adult groups who would like a similar experience. Businesses can book the tour as part of a team ‘away-day’ or as a precursor to a company dinner in the Grand Hall.
Cllr Wesley observed: “The Cubs were very enthusiastic and interested to learn about the rights that the Charter granted Congleton people as well as the fascinating and controversial history of our Town Mace. Their knowledge in the quiz was impressive, and I think we definitely have some future Town Criers in their ranks!”
Assistant Cub Leader Paul Green thanked the Town Hall Team for “an enjoyable and educational experience for us all.”
If any other group would like to take part in a Town Hall and Town Treasures Tour, please contact Town Hall Manager Mark Worthington on 01260 270350.
