THE mayor of Colchester was joined by special sporting and musical guests to celebrate this year’s traditional Oyster Feast.
Colchester Olympian Dominic King, who competed in the 50km walk at this year’s Games, and West Mersea’s Paralympian sailor Hannah Stodel tucked into the borough’s famous oysters during the ancient ceremony yesterday.
This year the mayor, Christopher Arnold, also hosted guest speakers Nigel Hildreth, musical director of Colne Valley Youth Orchestra, and Dr William McVicker, organ curator at London’s Royal Festival Hall, at the event which was held in Moot Hall.
Since the modern feast began in 1845, the tradition has celebrated Colchester’s rich heritage and sense of community.
Other guests included Dee Evans, former artistic director of the Mercury Theatre, and the mayor’s daughter, Joanna Arnold, who sang before the feast.
Following the customary procession and fanfare, all guests raised a toast to the Queen in time-honoured tradition.
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