Mock mayor of Abingdon for the seventh year running is Stuart Jackson, who beat off old rivals to take the title of Mayor of Ock Street.

Stuart Jackson takes a seat in a decorated chair to be carried aloft along Ock Street.

But amid the celebrations on Saturday was an air of disappointment that this 303-year-old custom seems to be losing its appeal. A thousand ballot papers were distributed to homes and businesses in Ock Street and surrounding communities, but only 139 were returned.

Mr Jackson, of Larkhill Road said: "I'm pleased at being returned as Mayor of Ock Street but my election has been dampened by the turn-out.

"There is a lot of hard work involved in organising the election and the morris dancing teams.

"Many people have moved into the area and maybe they don't know about this unusual tradition."

Mr Jackson topped the poll with 43 votes, followed by Leslie Argyle with 35. One vote behind was Roger Cox and bottom of the poll was Rodney James with 27.

The counting was supervised by the mayor of Abingdon, Hilary Green, who lives in Ock Street.

She said: "For the first time the two mayors have something in common -- Ock Street. It's one of Abingdon's great traditions."

The mayor presented Mr Jackson with two sashes, a ceremonial sword and a drinking cup called a mazer.