A ceremonial chair consigned to storage since Richmondshire District Council moved to its base at Mercury House has found a new home.
The civic chair has gone on loan to Richmond Town Council for use at the Town Hall.
The chair was presented to the then Richmond Rural District Council in 1964 by Major General GF Upjohn CBE of Catterick Garrison to commemorate 50 years of close association between the military and the local authority.
It took a prominent position in the Rural District Council’s – and later, Richmondshire District Council’s – Chamber at Swale House.
For many years it was used by the district council chairmen to preside over council meetings, but in 2013, when the council moved to Mercury House, it became surplus to requirements.
“The chair did not be fit into the Council’s modern, flexible working space so it was placed in storage where it could neither be seen nor used,” said district council chairman, Councillor Bill Glover.
“By taking on its stewardship, Richmond Town Council is allowing the chair’s craftsmanship and heritage to be seen and enjoyed in the future.”
Cllr Glover is seen (right) handing over the chair to the Town’s Mayor, Councillor Jonathan Preece.
