Mayor Making

The following is an extract from a Preston newspaper of 1st May 1858:

'Tarleton was the scene of much gaiety on Friday last, that being the day fixed for the annual election of the Mayor and other officers of "that ancient & honourable corporation". Mr James Sykes was the mayor for the past year and out of respect to him and his successor, Mr John Swift, a large number of persons from Liverpool, Southport and other places attended. The villagers were dressed in their best and gave a hearty welcome to the strangers, who returned the cordial greetings by a liberal distribution of money, sweetmeats and fruits among the lads and lasses.

As usual the civic procession with the municipal regalia was formed at the Ram's Head. Before starting on the accustomed round, the Ancient Charter which is contained in a venerable piece of parchment, 200 years old, a foot square, was taken from the corporate archives and read in due form. The procession, headed by the brass band, then walked the liberties, halting on the way to refresh the worthy officials. The day was delightfully fine and all appeared to enjoy themselves.'