COUNCILLORS in Pershore halted plans to buy new mayoral regalia at a recent meeting because it was proving too costly.

The town council had planned to purchase badges of office for the youth mayor, the outgoing mayor, mayoress and mayor's consort, allowing for both a male and female mayor.

They agreed plans to purchase a badge for the youth mayor, at a cost of £200.

But the rest of the badges were not agreed as they were set to cost £250 individually and then reduced in size if they were bought in bulk.

The cheapest offer was £185 per badge if ten were purchased, a total of £1,850.

This would last eight years, said the clerk, Ann Dobbins, providing the mayor was in office for two years.

Councillor Chris Parsons said: "I am not happy with that cost, I don't think we can justify this sort of money. That's a disgusting amount of money."

Mayor of Pershore Cllr Tony Rowley said: "I can understand the concern among members, it's something I share."

The council decided to get further costs before debating the matter in full.