Be part of a tradition going back over 900 years: Stafford Burgesses Guild seeks new members
By Livia Gregor 8th May 2026
Stafford Burgesses Guild are keen to recruit new people to keep their traditions alive for the next generation.
The burgesses have existed in Stafford since at least the 12th century and historically were responsible for the day-to-day running of the town.
In 1206, King John granted the Stafford Charter to the Burgesses Guild however over the centuries their power has been reduced.
The introduction of a council and the mayoral role in the 16th century gradually led to the burgesses' role becoming more ceremonial than authoritative.
Today, the Stafford Burgesses play an active role in many community events and oversee the Coton Fields Allotments which are situated on land given to the Guild by King John.
Master of the Guild John Edwards said: "The burgesses currently have two aspects.
"One is what we call the civic and social side.
"We tend to take part in things like Remembrance Day, mayor's parade, civic carol service, those kinds of things.
"We also try and organise things for the current burgesses of Stafford, anything from Skittles nights to quizzes to dinners.
"The other side of it is called the trust.
"That's the group responsible for the allotments."
Burgesses are sworn in by the mayor during a special legal ceremony.
To become a burgess, candidates should have completed an apprenticeship of at least three years in Stafford and subsequently spent two years using what they have learnt within the borough.
Disciplines that may offer suitable routes include engineering, nursing, public service (like police), business administration, medicine, accountancy, legal, surveying, or hairdressing.
The Guild is currently recruiting members and encourage anyone who wants to make new friends while contributing to the wider community to enquire.
The opportunity is open to both men and women.
Speaking about why he enjoys being a burgess, John said: "The thing I personally like about it is the historic background to it.
"These things are dying out all over the place, and I think we have got some kind of duty to maintain the history.
"Also, it's a good group of like-minded people who quite like getting together for anything from a session down at the pub to a formal dinner."
To find out more, email [email protected]
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