TAVISTOCK?s macebearers could soon be wearing smart new hats, following a generous offer from the town?s farmers? market. The ageing tricorn hats, provided by the town council, are in a sorry condition ? so bad the macebearers have been reluctant to wear them. But now Tavistock Farmers? Market Association is offering £300 towards new hats. Gill Gorbutt, of the association, said members were aware of the situation regarding the macebearers? hats and could understand the council was reluctant to spend money on replacing them, after it had already paid to have them re-furbished, albeit somewhat unsuccessfully. ?The reason for the suggestion is to show gratitude to the town council for the assistance they have given the farmers? market in making it such a successful event,? said Mrs Gorbutt. Town clerk Roger Howard said so far, he had only managed to source three suppliers of tricorn hats, the cheapest of which was £255. The council will therefore need to consider whether it wishes to spend the extra £210 required to buy two hats. Members of the town?s finance committee last week said they were very grateful for the kind offer. Councillors agreed a letter should be sent to the farmers? market association thanking them for their help.
