EVEN a spring deluge could not dampen spirits as dozens of shoppers flocked to watch the annual weighing in of High Wycombe's new town mayor.

The Mayor Making ritual, which is unique to the town and dates back to 1678, took centre stage in Frogmoor on Saturday, May 21, as Cllr Liaquat Ali began a year in office by being publicly weighed.

A Wycombe District Cllr since 1995, Mr Ali said he was immensely "proud" to have been chosen, but vowed not to rock the scales when he returned for the inaugural ceremony next year.

"I'm not sure about the weight," he said afterwards. "You have to wear a lot of clothes for the weighing. But it's good fun and part of history."

Mr Ali weighed 15 stone two pounds.

The custom is believed to have started in the 17th century after a Mr Henry Shepard was reportedly found drunk in office.

Following the misdemeanour it was decreed that the incoming mayor, all the alderman, district councillors and officers of the town would be weighed and their weights recorded to ensure they were not getting fat at the public's expense.

Departing mayor Cllr Margaret Draper (15 stone 12 pounds), said: "I have enjoyed it terribly."