Midsomer Norton’s Mayor could be looking far more ceremonial in future, after Councillors voted for a new robe and hat for the dignitary, which could cost around £2,200.

The desired robe in question is a standard, medium-sized ‘off-the-peg’ red Mayoral robe,” which is to be purchased, along with a hat, to bring Midsomer Norton in line with other Somerset Mayors, and will be worn with the Civic Chain of Office on ceremonial occasions only.

The Council was assured that not a penny would be spent more than needed to be, and that ideally the robe would be purchased in time for Midsomer Norton’s Twinning event. Mayor of Midsomer Norton, Paul Myers, told the Council that his role has seen him required to represent the Town in public at far more events than when he began, and that it may look more professional to be dressed in the same ceremonial robes as other Mayors from Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and so forth.

It has also been announced that the Full Council will now meet every two months, instead of every month, with responsibilities shared across all Councillors. The Finance Working Party and the Operations Working Party will become formal committees, and will meet publicly once a month. The Chairs and Deputy Chairs of said committees are to be elected soon. Along with the Planning Committee, they will send full reports each month to the Full Council.

However, the Recreation Ground Trust and the Town Trust will remain unchanged, with Town Councillors remaining as Trustees.