NOW that is an outfit. Santa Claus is about as close as you can get to robes like that these days.

This is the Lord Provost of Glasgow, bailies and magistrates, in their formal robes, hats and chains of office, strolling to Glasgow Cathedral in 1957 for the annual Kirkin’ of the Council when the Cathedral minister would bless their endeavours and give them some hints on how to carry out their civic duty.

That’s the side entrance to the Royal Infirmary they are passing if I’m not mistaken.

The robes were black, but I found a newspaper cutting from a few years earlier when it was suggested a new set of robes in scarlet should be bought to brighten up the procession.

Sadly, the councillors vetoed the idea because of the cost involved, although it would have been some sight.

The wearing of the robes fell out of favour. I recall that Janey Buchan, who later became Glasgow’s Member of the European Parliament, objected to wearing such frippery when she was a councillor. I wonder if they are still stored in a cupboard.

Cathedral minister in 1957, the Reverend Dr Nevile Davidson, told the congregation at the Kirkin’ ceremony that faith had been shaken by two world wars, but although church attendance was falling, those that did go had a real desire to worship.

He also remarked on the growth of Communism in the workplace and urged Christians to talk more about their faith at work.