A NEW town serjeant has been appointed for Colchester.

Michael Kirby has taken over the historic role following the death of former town serjeant Richard Buckle earlier this year.

Mr Kirby has been deputising in the role and will start his appointment straight away.

He will be combining it with his current duties of senior hallkeeper.

Michael, who has 22 years experience working at the town hall, will support the mayoralty and civic office to uphold and preserve the customs and protocol of civic life.

He will also accompany the mayor and carry the borough mace at all civic events such as full council meetings, mayor-making, opening of the fisheries, the Oyster Feast and Remembrance Sunday.

Colchester mayor Margaret Fairley-Crowe said: “The tradition in Colchester of the town serjeant can be traced back for generations.

“I welcome Michael into his new role.”