PEOPLE living in Colchester have the opportunity to apply for a ceremonial title dating back 800 years.
The title of Freeburgess is rooted in a 1189 royal charter from Richard the Lionheart.
The mayor of Colchester, councillor Michael Lilley, will confer the honour at a ceremony on Wednesday, April 8.
The Freeburgess title is open to eligible Colchester residents who have either completed a seven-year apprenticeship under a Freeburgess member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen or have a parent or grandparent with Freeburgess status and meet the relevant qualifying criteria.
Mr Lilley said: "I encourage all residents who meet the qualification criteria to apply for Freeburgess status.
"It will be an honour to welcome successful applicants to the ceremony at Colchester’s Town Hall.
"While this title is purely ceremonial, it plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating our town’s rich heritage."
Applications are open until 5pm on March 26, 2026.
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More than 400 trades qualify, from tree surgery and coffin making to aluminium fabrication and asbestos removal.
The application form is available at colchester.gov.uk/freeburgess-of-colchester.
Details about eligibility can be found on the mayor and town hall heritage section of the council website.
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