Be part of a tradition: apply for Freeburgess status now!

The Freeburgess designation is a ceremonial honour with origins in the 1189 Royal Charter issued by Richard the Lionheart and is open to any eligible Colchester resident.

A tall historic brick building (Colchester Town Hall) with ornate stone detailing, arched windows, and classical statues set into the façade. A prominent clock tower rises above the structure, topped with decorative architectural features. The sky behind it is bright blue with scattered white clouds.

Residents of Colchester now have the opportunity to apply for the ceremonial title of ‘Freeburgess’.

The application form can be downloaded from www.colchester.gov.uk/freeburgess-of-colchester

Applications will be accepted until 5pm on Thursday, 26 March 2026, ahead of the upcoming ceremony on Wednesday, 8 April 2026. During the event, Colchester’s Mayor, Councillor Michael Lilley, will officially confer the title.

Residents of Colchester now have the opportunity to apply for the ceremonial title of ‘Freeburgess’.

The application form can be downloaded from www.colchester.gov.uk/freeburgess-of-colchester

Applications will be accepted until 5pm on Thursday, 26 March 2026, ahead of the upcoming ceremony on Wednesday, 8 April 2026. During the event, Colchester’s Mayor, Councillor Michael Lilley, will officially confer the title.

The Freeburgess designation is a ceremonial honour with origins in the 1189 Royal Charter issued by Richard the Lionheart. It is open to any eligible Colchester resident.

Applicants must meet one of two criteria to qualify. They must either:

  • have completed a seven year apprenticeship under a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen who also holds the Freeburgess‑ title, or
  • have a parent or grandparent with Freeburgess status and meet the relevant qualifying criteria

More than 400 trades and crafts are recognised for eligibility. These range from traditional skills such as cabinet making, tree surgery, and coffin making to more contemporary professions including aluminium fabrication and asbestos removal.

Councillor Michael Lilley, Mayor of Colchester, said: “I encourage all residents who meet the qualification criteria to apply for Freeburgess status. It will be an honour to welcome successful applicants to the ceremony at Colchester’s Town Hall.
While this title is purely ceremonial, it plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating our town’s rich heritage.”

For information on Freeburgess criteria, please visit Mayor and Town Hall Heritage.

For additional information about the Mayor and the historical significance of the Town Hall, please visit http://www.colchester.gov.uk/mayor.