Fenton finally gets a ceremonial mace after 115 years. University students designed it to reflect the town’s ceramic history.
University of Staffordshire students designed the mace. Fenton was the only town without one; it never had a mace when towns joined in 1910. Organizers thought it was time for Fenton to get one.
Students had to show Fenton’s ceramic history and reflect the ceramic industry. The design was their task.
Neil Brownsword gave the project brief. Hannah Ault chaired the expert panel. The panel included university leaders, museum curators, local officials and industry directors. Keith Brymer Jones gave design feedback.
Two winning teams will now collaborate to create the final Fenton mace. The unveiling is on April 5. The ceremony starts at Fenton Town Hall and continues to Stoke Town Hall.
MA Ceramics students also impressed judges, and they will create a city mace. It will mark the centenary on December 14. Sponsors will provide materials and guidance.
Hannah said the students did well. Judges were impressed by every group, and it was hard to pick a winner. One group had an excellent design concept, and another group had great engineering expertise. The two teams will join forces to create the ultimate Fenton mace.
Lyn Sharpe felt emotional about the designs, saying they moved her to tears. Designs showed Fenton’s history, and she is proud of all the students’ work.
Hannah Cosnet, one of the winning students, said they worked hard. She is proud to be chosen and excited to work with the other team. She thinks it will be fun.
Paul Chidlow, another student on the team, said creating the Fenton mace is special. He said the mace will last for generations and will be around for a very long time. He is glad to be part of it.