Isle Of Wight Council Mace-Bearer Celebrates 25 Years Of Service

A familiar face at some of the Isle of Wight's most important civic events is celebrating a major milestone after completing 25 years as the Isle of Wight Council's mace-bearer.

Steve Hammond was recognised for his quarter-century of service at the council's latest Annual Full Council meeting.

Despite becoming a well-known figure in Island civic life, Steve says he had little idea what the role involved when he was first approached about becoming mace-bearer.

Before taking on the position, Steve worked as chauffeur to the council chairman when the authority still had an official car.

His first chairman was Vic Morey, who introduced him to the historic ceremonial role and the centuries-old traditions that accompany it.

Over the past 25 years, Steve has attended Full Council meetings, civic services, royal visits and major events including Remembrance Sunday commemorations.

The role centres around carrying the council's ceremonial mace, an ornate silver-gilt symbol of authority dating back to 1696.

Weighing around seven-and-a-half kilograms, the large Newport mace features intricate engravings, heraldic symbols and references to William of Orange and Queen Mary.

Steve says learning the role involved mastering a range of traditions and protocols, including how the mace is carried and displayed during official events.

Among the highlights of his service have been meeting members of the Royal Family, including the late Prince Philip.

Steve recalled how the Duke of Edinburgh would occasionally keep security teams on their toes by unexpectedly breaking away from planned routes to greet members of the public.

Royal visits also come with specific ceremonial requirements. During visits by the late Queen Elizabeth II, Steve would turn the mace upside down as she passed, following a long-established mark of respect.

As well as attending official functions, Steve has helped educate younger generations about the history of the Island's civic treasures through visits by school and scout groups.

The Isle of Wight is home to four historic maces, each with its own story and connection to the Island's past.

Reflecting on his 25 years in the role, Steve said it has been a privilege to serve the Island and take part in so many significant occasions.

Paying tribute to his service, Isle of Wight Council Chairman Councillor Ian Dore thanked Steve for his dedication and professionalism.

He said:

"Steve has given 25 years of dedicated service to the council and to the Island.

"He carries out his role with great care, professionalism and pride, and plays an important part in maintaining the traditions of the council at our most significant civic events.

"On behalf of members and residents, I would like to thank him for his long and loyal service."

A quarter of a century after first taking up the role, Steve continues to carry the mace with the same sense of responsibility and pride that has defined his service to the Island.