When Steve Hammond first agreed to take on the role of mace-bearer for the Isle of Wight Council, he admits he had “no clue” what it involved.

Twenty-five years later, he has become one of the familiar faces of civic life on the Island — though he is the first to downplay the idea that the role is about status.

Instead, as he marked a quarter-century of service at the latest Annual Full Council meeting, Steve reflected on a job rooted in history, precision and pride — often learned the hard way.

“I was the chairman’s chauffeur when we still had the car,” he said. “My first chairman was Vic Morey, and then completely out of the blue I was asked if I’d like to be the mace-bearer.

“I didn’t even know what he meant at the time.”

It was Vic who first introduced Steve to the ornate silver-gilt mace, showing him the craftsmanship — and the responsibility — involved.

“I had to learn everything from scratch,” he said. “How to carry it, what every part means, the history behind it. There are rules and regulations for everything, for example, it’s always on the right shoulder, and the crown must be on the right-hand side of the chairman or mayor.”

The role sees Steve attend Full Council meetings, civic services and major events such as Remembrance Sunday. While the ceremonial side is steeped in tradition, no two occasions are ever quite the same.

“It can throw you a curve ball at any time,” he said. “You follow a procedure, but things happen and you’ve got to adapt. That’s what makes it interesting.”

The mace itself,  known as the large Newport mace, dates back to 1696 and weighs in at around seven and a half kilos.

“You never touch it with your bare hands because the oils from your skin can damage it,” Steve explained.

Its intricate design reflects centuries of history, including links to William of Orange and Queen Mary, as well as the heraldry of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

“There’s so much detail in it,” he said. “You’ve got engravings, the coat of arms, cherubs under the head – and they sit on your shoulder, so after a while you definitely feel it.”

Steve has also helped share that history with younger generations, particularly through past visits from school and scout groups.

“They’re always really interested, especially when you tell them the stories behind it,” he said. “They’re not allowed to touch it, but they love learning what it’s about.”

Across the Island there are four maces in total, each with its own place in local history, from Newport to Ryde and the much smaller Newtown mace, once hidden during a French invasion to prevent it being taken.

For Steve, however, it is the people he has met along the way that stand out most, including members of the Royal Family.

“I met the late Duke of Edinburgh quite a few times — he was very comical,” he said. “He didn’t like having security around him and used to cause them no end of trouble.”

He recalls one visit to Cowes where Prince Philip unexpectedly broke away from official plans.

“He was meant to go straight across the road, but suddenly he ran over to start shaking hands with the public. The security were diving everywhere trying to keep up, it was quite funny to watch.”

Royal visits also bring very specific rules, particularly around the mace.

“When the late Queen visited, there’s a rule that nothing should be above her head,” Steve explained. “So you have to turn the mace upside down as she passes. It’s a sign of respect.”

Despite the centuries-old traditions, Steve is clear about what the role means to him on a personal level.

“I feel very honoured,” he said. “I came from West London, didn’t have the best education, and I’ve ended up on the Island doing this, meeting all sorts of people and being part of so many events.”

He has not forgotten the nerves of his early days.

“The first time I carried it, I was absolutely frightened out of my socks,” he said. “You realise how valuable it is, how much history there is behind it. But Vic Morey all those years ago steered me in the right direction.”

Paying tribute, Isle of Wight Council chairman Councillor Ian Dore said Steve’s contribution had been invaluable.

“Steve has given 25 years of dedicated service to the council and to the Island,” he said. “He carries out his role with great care, professionalism and pride, and plays an important part in maintaining the traditions of the council at our most significant civic events.

“On behalf of members and residents, I would like to thank him for his long and loyal service.”

A quarter of a century on, that sense of responsibility remains, matched by a quiet pride in the role he continues to carry out.

“I enjoy it, and I’m proud of it,” he said. “It’s something a bit different and it means a lot to be trusted with it.”