ONE of Colchester's most historic ceremonies will break from tradition this year due to coronavirus.

The opening of the Colne Oyster Fisheries, which dates back to 1540, will be held on dry land rather than the sea.

To enable social distancing, the annual gin and gingerbread ceremony will be held at Cudmore Grove County Park, East Mersea, within sight of Mersea Stone where the old ceremony traditionally took place.

Tradition dictates the Mayor of Colchester, the chief executive and Town Serjeant wear full regalia for the event, which is witnessed by several distinguished guests who, after the ceremony, are served some Colchester Native Oysters.

The Proclamation, an ancient tongue-twister, will be read by chief executive Adrian Pritchard to officially declare the fishery open for the season.

The Mayor and Mayoress, Nick and Elizabeth Cope, will then raise a toast to The Queen.

In preparation for this year's even a letter has been sent to Buckingham Palace, which has responded with thanks and sent good wishes for the ceremony.

Mr Cope said: "The tradition of oysters and oyster fisheries in Colchester is nearly 2,000-years-old and I am delighted to be part of this year’s time-honoured ceremony.

"Although social distancing means we will not be able to take to open water, it will still be a wonderful occasion to celebrate and enjoy the start of this year's oyster harvest.”

Guests will arrive at the Country Park at 11am next Friday.

Visit colchester.gov.uk/mayor.