WOKINGHAM Town’s honorary constable stepped down at Sunday’s mayor making after 20 years of helping out during a host of civic events.
Stan Harris first took on the role in 2002, helping escort the mace during Wokingham Town Council civic processions.
The role is part of Wokingham’s rich heritage, and over the past two decades Mr Harris has helped in so many ways, including welcoming guests to the town hall, shared the history with visitors, and attended many receptions.
As part of the mayor making ceremony, held in the town hall, outgoing mayor Cllr Tony Lack paid tribute to his colleague for his many years of service.
“Stan is now retiring as Honorary Constable and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his service over the last 20 years,” he said.
“Sadly, Stan has to come to the decision that his marching days are over. He will be missed but he has promised to keep in touch.
“We certainly won’t be able to keep him away from the likes of Heritage Day or from a chat in the Market Place.”
Cllr Lack added: “Not many people know this, but Stan has the 1943 Mayor, George Alfred Cheeseman, in his family tree.
“Stan was a traffic warden in Reading until he retired in 1997, he has been a band member – a drummer – for many years and along with his wife Liz is involved with the Salvation Army.
“Stan. thanks for all you have done to uphold tradition in Wokingham.”
And a spokesperson for Wokingham Town Council said: “Throughout his service, Stan has undertaken his role with pride and honour, and this has been very much appreciated by both Councillors and officers alike.
“Thank you Stan.”
