A CEREMONY is being held in which the new High Steward of Harwich will officially take up his position.

The investiture of the High Steward will take place at the Electric Palace, Harwich, on Thursday.

On the day and at a special meeting of Harwich Town Council, Steven Henderson, leader of the council, will officially nominate Chris Strachan for the role.

Chris is a leading figure of the community and chairman of the Electric Palace Trust.

The role of High Steward was previously carried out by the late Bill Bleakley, who celebrated 25 years in the post last year. Bill died earlier this year.

Only 23 other places have permission to have a High Steward.

Dating back to the 13th century, the High Steward is a figurehead for the town, a meeter and greeter.

The nomination will be seconded by fellow councillor Mick Gardener before Mr Strachan is invited to take his oath and sign a declaration.

After the meeting a civic procession will take place starting at the Guildhall, Harwich, around 11.45am, leading to St Nicholas Church.

It will be led by the crucifer and followed by the mayor's chaplin, rector of St Nicholas Church, sergeant at mace, town mayor, Dave McLeod, deputy mayor, Dave Rutson, plus other dignitaries such as Peter Balbirnie, chairman of Tendring Council and John Hawkins TDC's chief executive.

At 12noon a special church service will begin, which includes pupils from Harwich Community Primary, Spring Meadows and St Joseph's primary schools speaking about what Harwich means to them.

A private reception will follow.