THE Mayor of Skipton lost part of his century-old chain of office on Yorkshire Day, it emerged today. It turned up nearly two weeks later in Halifax, after it was run over by a lawn mower.
Councillor Martin Emmerson’s “rather expensive” official regalia, which was lost at a Yorkshire Day reception, was found on a grass verge and thrown clear by the mower.
A part of the Mayor of Skipton's chain of office was found at The Shay in Halifax after it was lost during the town's Yorkshire Day celebrations.
Coun Emmerson said: “Obviously, I am absolutely delighted that the pendant was found. It is a massive relief from my point of view.
“Our council chamber is full of portraits of former mayors – dating back well over 100 years – all proudly wearing the chains. I really didn’t want to go down in history as the mayor who lost them.”
Dave Parker, chief officer of Skipton Town Council, said: “Clearly, both the mayor and the council are delighted and very relieved that the pendant has been located.
“There is some superficial damage and buckling to the pendant – presumably from its run-in with the mower – but it is otherwise intact and I’m sure can be restored to its former glory.”