THE people of Taunton can sleep easy in their beds for another year following the latest appointments to the borough's Court Leet.

Senior bailiff Peter Nott presided over the organisation's law day in the Old Municipal Buildings on Friday, with steward Bill Morris swearing in 23 jurors.

The court's history dates from the 8th century, when it was responsible for the maintenance of criminal and civil law.

Officers supervised the management of the borough and included rhine ridders, who oversaw the maintenance of the sewers; shamble keepers, who ensured butchers did not overcharge; and ale tasters, who checked that brewers brewed food ale.

Its significance diminished in the 17th and 18th centuries, although the law day tradition continues today.

Appointments on Friday were ale tasters, Adrian White, Robert Dunning; rhine ridders, Sydney French, Jon Upsher, Ian Barrie; senior constable, John Ruff; lord of the manor, John White; senior bailiff, Peter Nott; junior constable, Don Heys; junior bailiff, David Brown.

Among the guests were Taunton Deane Mayor, Cllr Vivienne Stock-Williams, the High Sheriff of Somerset, Edward Bayntun-Coward, the chairman of Somerset County Council, Christine Lawrence, and the deputy chairman of magistrates, Patricia Johnson.