A local historian and author has joined those backing efforts to restore the Sheriff’s Ride to former glory.
Jono Oates has joined other individuals and businesses to support the 2024 edition of the historic tradition.
The tradition began after Queen Mary gave Lichfield a Royal Charter which enabled the city to appoint its own Sheriff who enforced the law and managed the prison.
The first ride was undertaken in 1553 and has continued every year except for the Covid period.
Organisers the Lichfield Shrievalty Association are hoping to broaden the appeal of the event this year by adding cyclists as well as horses to the event.
Jono said:
“As a historian of this wonderful city, I hope that my sponsorship of a cash prize for both the riders and cyclists will encourage participation of the equestrian and cycle ride.
“It is thanks to those that take part in the ride that the ride will live on for the next generation.”
Jono Oates
Clerk of the Course and a former Sheriff of Lichfield Nick Sedgwick said:
“I am delighted that Jono is sponsoring the Sheriff’s Ride in this way.
“He joins a growing list of individuals and companies as our supporters of this unique event.
“We are hoping that the event on 7th September will be supported by the public that will gather outside the Guildhall to see the procession of horses and cyclists as they leave the city starting at 10am following a speech from the Sheriff of Lichfield and our special guest Lesley Smith as Queen Mary.”.
Nick Sedgwick
For more details and to register to take part visit sheriffoflichfield.org.uk.
It is my understanding that the Sheriffs ride is about ‘beating the bounds of the city’. It’s good that the event is sponsored (someone has to pay for the pre-ride tipple) but why and what is the cash prize for? I didn’t think it was a race.
Well done Jono, and so we all should support the Sheriff’s Ride.
Not sure about cyclists….as even with horses it can get abit hairy on the gallops.
AnnS the lunch time races
The cash prize is for one of.the riders and one of the cyclists, drawn from all the entrants on the day. I’m delighted to be supporting this historic, Lichfield custom!
Well done Jono for helping to ensure that a piece of Lichfield’s heritage is kept alive – much has been lost.
My understanding of the Queen Mary charter is that it was contingent on the bounds being perambulated every year. Indeed, even in the two World Wars the Sheriff and his deputy carried out this duty, sometimes on foot.
Times change and, since the proviso was not complied with during Covid, you can only assume the charter has now relapsed.
As with many things in life, including traditions, you use it or you lose it.