The Mayor of the Ramsgate, David Green, was due to drop into the London Jewish Cultural Centre this week for the launch of a costume exhibition designed by one of his constituents, Mark Negin.

He was expected to wear the priceless golden chain of office donated by one of the town’s most illustrious former inhabitants, Sir Moses Montefiore.

So priceless that the Mayor may only wear it if guarded by his Sergeant who, should the Mayor be attacked, is under orders to protect the chain first.