Preston Guild closes

Preston Guild will officially close today for another 20 years with the formal adjournment of the guild court.

AT the guild hall this morning the 20 new burgesses nominated by the people of the city will be admitted at the gift of the Guild Mayor.

These are traditionally people who have been of service to the Guild and to Preston, such as past Mayors and, in 1992, Tom Finney. In 2012 this tradition has been widened to allow 20 more people, nominated by the community, to become burgesses. After the new burgesses are admitted the court is adjourned for another 20 years - a poignant moment. The Guild Mayor then gives a speech, thanking the many people involved and giving a summary of the memories and spirit of the week’s celebrations.

For the first Guild of the 21st century, we will relay the Guild court on the big screen in the Flag Market area in the city centre, so that anyone can witness this splendid ceremony.

The end may be nigh but there is still a full day of festivities ahead including free music festival Gfest. Click here for the full rundown.