The role of Honorary Recorder is a purely civic and ceremonial position with no formal duties or powers. Despite this, it serves as an important link between the council, the community, and the courts.
Historical context
Historically, the Recorder of a town or city was a legal representative responsible for dispensing justice at the Court. The Recorder also played a key role in managing the Town's Chest, where important town documents were kept.
Responsibilities
The Honorary Recorder provides independent legal advice to the Mayor and Chief Executive when needed. They assist the Mayor or Chief Executive with activities relevant to the district, provided these are politically non-controversial, and act as one of the Mayor's escorts at ceremonial civic events.
Honorary Recorders of Ipswich (1803 - present)
Recorders
- 1803-1819: Robert Alderson
- 1819-1831: Vacant
- 1831-1842: Charles Frederick Williams KC
- 1842-1848: William Thomas Shave Daniel
- 1848-1861: David Power
- 1861-1866: James Redford Buliver
- 1866-1877: W J Metcalfe
- 1877-1906: Thomas Calthorpe Blofeld
- 1906-1915: The Hon Sir Frederick Low KC
- 1915-1936: Heber Leonidis Hart KC
- 1937-1947: Grafton Deen Pyror
- 1947-1958: The Hon Sir Stephen Gerald Howard QC, MP
- 1958-1968: The Hon Sir Sebag Shaw QC
- 1968-1971: William McLaren Howard QC
Honorary Recorders
- 1971-1975: William McLaren Howard QC
- 1975-1999: His Hon Judge Bertrand Richards
- 2000-2018: His Hon Judge John Devaux
- 2019-current: His Hon Judge Martyn Levett