A DAMAGED mayoral robe, which it was feared would have to be replaced at a cost of thousands, has been repaired for free by generous Droitwich residents.

Last month the Advertiser reported on the damaged ceremonial mayoral robe that was found to be significantly damaged at the beginning of the annual meeting of Droitwich Town Council.

The robe, at least 20 years old, is made of woven wool with a fur and velvet trim. It was found to have sustained a large L-shaped tear approxiamately one third of the way up the back, while the velvet hemming had also come away.

Originally town clerk Pam Craney looked into getting the robe repaired, but as it was felt there was no way of making repairs invisible she sought quotes for a new robe.

One quote given was from a Worcester-based firm who quoted £2,500 for a new robe using fake fur.

After hearing about the damaged robe public-spirited Droitwich residents offered their services to look again into whether it could be repaired.

They felt it was restorable with one, a fabric specialist, able to carry out the repair work for free.

Ms Craney said: "I am pleased to advise that three very public-spirited Droitwich residents with a wealth of experience subsequently came forward.

"The work has since been completed by this person to an exceedingly high standard and the robe has now been returned to the Town Council.

"I thank these three people for their input and I am especially grateful to the individual who undertook this restoration work at no cost. This person did request to remain anonymous and this wish is honoured."

She added as the robe is worn on civic occasions the next time it will be available for public viewing will be at the Civic Service on Sunday, September 27.