AFTER a petition that gained over 1,000 thousand signatures, the male-only Alcester Court Leet have agreed to elect jurors ‘irrespective of gender’.

Last month protesters called on the historical organisation to allow women to join and vote.

Women were not allowed to serve as court officers, jurors or vote for jurors at the court, which plays a key role in the town's civic life.

In a statement posted on Facebook the Alcester Court Leet said: “Lord of the Manor of Alcester Court Leet, the Marquess of Hertford, DL, FRAgS, reviewed the Courts functions and membership to ensure they remained relevant particularly with regard to societal changes.

“He has now completed that review and decided that the functions of the Court Leet in serving the community of Alcester will best be promoted by electing Jurors to the Court irrespective of gender and thereby eligible for election as Officers.

“Lord Hertford welcomes this change and hopes that his Court will continue to serve Alcester as it has done over past centuries.

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The court said the changes will be implemented at the next annual court meeting in October 2022.

The court works to maintain centuries-old town traditions, organises community events and raises money for local causes.