BROMSGROVE'S new Court Leet Bailiff is a man used to having people fall asleep in his presence, but he doesn't mind because he is senior consultant anaesthetist at the Alexandra hospital.

Dr Barrie Fischer, a member of the court for ten years, was chosen to occupy the role for the coming year by members of the ancient Court Leet and Court Baron of the manor of Bromsgrove when they met for the Autumn Court at Bromsgrove School last Thursday.

The author of two medical text books, Dr Fischer is a leading authority in his field. Every year he receives invitations to undertake between 30 and 40 lecture tours both in the UK and abroad. He is married and lives with his wife near Ombersley.

Thanking members for their support, he said he was honoured to be elected Bailiff and although he has some small changes in mind, pledged that during his year in office to uphold the court's high standards and ancient traditions. He says he also wants to work to ensure it maintains its standing in the community. He has chosen Bromsgrove United Charities and Avoncroft Museum as his two principle charities.

The new Reeve and Bailiff-elect is Christopher Firminger, who has moved up from Juryman. Land agent Richard Harper, from Grafton, Bromsgrove, was proposed for induction as Juror in the spring by outgoing Bailiff Jeremy Sharp.

Richard Scott, landlord of the Red Lion in High Street, was sworn in as Tythingman for Woodcote yield and Jurymen Hamish Wilson and Nick Pinfield will take on the sought-after roles of Alestasters. A new post, that of Court Archivist, will be underaken by former Bailiff John Weston, from Breakback. In a brief speech Jeremy Sharp said he was delighted to announce his charities were to benefit from the magnificent sum of £9,500, which has been raised. It will be shared between the St John's Landmark Appeal and the Primrose at the Princess. Court Chaplain, the Rev Nigel Marns, vicar of St John's, said the money will be used to replace a roof pinnacle which had been destroyed by lightning.

The court was later the guests of the Lord of the Manor Christopher Bird at Rosados Restaurant in Aston Fields.