The Isle of Wight Council’s mace-bearer has reflected on 25 years of civic service, admitting he had ‘no clue’ what the role involved when he first took it on.
Steve Hammond has become one of the familiar faces of civic life on the Island, regularly attending Full Council meetings, civic services and major events including Remembrance Sunday.
But as he marked a quarter-century in the role at the latest Annual Full Council meeting, Steve said the job was not about status, but history, precision and pride.
“I was the chairman’s chauffeur when we still had the car.
“My first chairman was Vic Morey, and then completely out of the blue I was asked if I’d like to be the mace-bearer.
“I didn’t even know what he meant at the time.”
It was Vic Morey who first introduced Steve to the ornate silver-gilt mace, explaining its craftsmanship and the responsibility that came with carrying it.
“I had to learn everything from scratch.
Article continues below this advertisement “How to carry it, what every part means, the history behind it. There are rules and regulations for everything, for example, it’s always on the right shoulder, and the crown must be on the right-hand side of the chairman or mayor.”
The mace itself, known as the large Newport mace, dates back to 1696 and weighs around 7.5kg.
Steve explained that it must never be touched with bare hands, as oils from the skin can damage it.
Its intricate design includes links to William of Orange and Queen Mary, as well as heraldry representing England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
“There’s so much detail in it.
“You’ve got engravings, the coat of arms, cherubs under the head – and they sit on your shoulder, so after a while you definitely feel it.”
Over the years, Steve has helped share the history of the mace with schoolchildren and scout groups, who he says are often fascinated by the stories behind it.
Across the Island there are 4 maces in total, each with its own place in local history, from Newport to Ryde and the much smaller Newtown mace, which was once hidden during a French invasion to prevent it being taken.
For Steve, however, it is the people he has met along the way that stand out most, including members of the Royal Family.
“I met the late Duke of Edinburgh quite a few times — he was very comical.
“He didn’t like having security around him and used to cause them no end of trouble.”
Steve recalled one visit to Cowes where Prince Philip unexpectedly broke away from the official plan to greet members of the public.
“He was meant to go straight across the road, but suddenly he ran over to start shaking hands with the public.
“The security were diving everywhere trying to keep up, it was quite funny to watch.”
Royal visits also bring very specific rules, including around the mace itself.
“When the late Queen visited, there’s a rule that nothing should be above her head.
“So you have to turn the mace upside down as she passes. It’s a sign of respect.”
Despite the traditions surrounding the role, Steve says it remains a personal honour.
“I feel very honoured.
“I came from West London, didn’t have the best education, and I’ve ended up on the Island doing this, meeting all sorts of people and being part of so many events.”
He has also never forgotten the nerves of his early days.
“The first time I carried it, I was absolutely frightened out of my socks.
“You realise how valuable it is, how much history there is behind it. But Vic Morey all those years ago steered me in the right direction.”
Paying tribute, Isle of Wight Council chairman Councillor Ian Dore said Steve’s contribution had been invaluable.
“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 on, Steve says the sense of responsibility remains, matched by quiet pride.
“I enjoy it, and I’m proud of it.
“It’s something a bit different and it means a lot to be trusted with it.”
