The odd Saddleworth tradition making its post-pandemic return

Wearing the ceremonial clog iron chain of office, Stuart Cook is making ready to lead the first band at the Scouthead and Austerlands Whit Friday contest to Dawson’s Field off the A62 Huddersfield road.

Stuart, 71,  a retired garage proprietor, has lived in the Higher Springhead area all his life.

Before its closure, he was a member of the congregation at St Pauls, Scouthead, frequently carrying the church’s banner at the Whitsuntide processions in Uppermill.

A regular supporter of the Scouthead and Austerlands band contest, he is the latest member to join its committee.

Stuart’s inauguration will take place on Tuesday, May 31 at the Old Original, Scouthead.

The light-hearted ceremony will be conducted by former Austerlands mayor, Roger Fielding, dressed in his toastmaster’s livery of red tailcoat and white bow tie. 

And the event will be witnessed by a number of former mayors wearing miniature clog irons to signify their past office.

The tradition of the mayor leading the opening band was first introduced at the contest in 1999 but the Austerlands village mayoralty has a history dating back to the late 1940s.

Then, George Corbett who lived on Huddersfield Road, was photographed in his regalia, likely at the Red Lion public house.

The custom captured the interest and imagination of band musicians and spectators who have warmed to the ritual.

And the real oddity is the ritual’s centrepiece -  an old clog-iron suspended on a lavatory chain, adorned by barrel-shaped dog tags engraved with the names of previous mayors.

Joan Sykes, centre, wearing the clog iron chain in 2018

Stuart said: "It is a privilege to be asked to accept the role as mayor of Austerlands and, because of the pandemic, I must be the longest mayor-elect since the ritual began. 

“Nevertheless, I am really looking forward to escorting the first band up to the contest field on Whit Friday.”

David Needham, secretary of the Scouthead and Austerlands Brass Band Contest, said: “To many residents the investiture of a new Mayor of Austerlands means our brass band festival of music is just around the corner. 

“Our last event was held in 2019 so it has been a long time coming and there is no doubt excitement is mounting in our community."

He added: “This year has not been without its problems but we have a willing committee who are confident that this year’s contest will be better than ever."