The glove ceremony which takes place in the Dean’s drawing room at Christ Church is a symbolic event of uncertain origin. It may be that white gloves were presented to the High Court judge if there were no crimes for him to try on his visit. These days a pair of white gloves are presented to him both by the Lord Mayor of Oxford and by Oxford University. It is a very grand affair with Heads of Houses, vice-chancellor, Registrar, Proctors and more all present.

This is a very traditional event that marks the start of the legal year in Oxford. It used to mark the
annual start of the “Assizes” – the title of a visit by the a High Court Judge to dispose of criminal and civil business in the county. The Assizes were abolished by the 1971 courts act. These days High Court Judges still visit Oxford but now sit in the Crown Court. The service is now known as the court sermon and the preacher is appointed by Oxford University’s Summoner of preachers – usually a college chaplain.

These types of event don’t really do much in terms of day to day politics but they are important traditions that I think keep Oxford the great and fascinating City it is today.  I was pleased to attend with around 5 other members of the City Council.