A NEW mayor for Dunmow has been sworn ahead of this year s Flitch Trials and he is honoured to take the position during a time of such wonderful tradition. Clive Smith, who has been a Great Dunmow resident for a total of 30 years, interspersed with trips

A NEW mayor for Dunmow has been sworn ahead of this year's Flitch Trials and he is honoured to take the position during a time of such wonderful tradition.

Clive Smith, who has been a Great Dunmow resident for a total of 30 years, interspersed with trips and work abroad, believes the Flitch Trials are a truly great thing for the town.

The quadrennial tradition involves couples having to prove to a judge and

ury that they have never wished themselves unmarried.

He said: "I think I have only missed two in my entire time in the Dunmow area; it really does make for a great spectacle and I'm all for it."

Mayor Smith also works for the Flitch committee and tries to help out wherever he can, unfortunately that often means he misses the actual trials as they happen.

"I sometimes get to catch the last trial of the day, but after attending all the Flitch committee meetings and offering my assistance in as many ways I can I like to follow that through," he said.

And even though this year he will be residing over the Flitch Trials from the lofty position of town mayor, you will still be able to see him doing hard work on the ground as he once again dons his official blue Flitch trial helper shirt.

"I like to get involved in everything and anything from helping to set up to cleaning up afterwards, the event is a real part of the town and makes for a great day, I'm only too happy to help with that process."

Before he can begin to muck in with

the rest of the helpers though, Mr

Smith will have to perform his civil duty by proudly leading the procession, including the jury, the bearers, the

chairman and of course the Flitch, through the town on Saturday morning before the trials can begin. "It will be a tremendous honour," he said.

The mayor for the last Flitch Trials in 2004 was Michael Miller, who still serves on the town council.

Pictures of him leading the procession are available to view on the official flitch trial website at www.dunmowflitchtrials.co.uk, where you can also still order tickets for the huge event on July 12.

Alternatively you can call 01371 875757 or write to D.F.T. Ticket Sales, 35 Delfcroft, Ware, Herts. SG12 0BH. For any queries ring 01920 462350.

l FOR all the latest Flitch Trial news visit the Dunmow Broadcast website at www.dunmowbroadcast24.co.uk