The Sheriff, Guild of Scriveners and many Serjeants will all take part in the annual medieval-themed York charity event, Assize of Ale, this weekend.

In the middle ages Sheriffs were concerned that the ale of York should be of a suitable quality and brought it upon themselves to appoint Serjeants to test the quality of ale in the city.

This Saturday (11 August) at 1.50pm, members of the Guild of Scriveners, friends and supporters will be summoned and then sworn in as Serjeants by the Sheriff of York, Councillor Paul Firth, in the historical Mansion House, where they will then take part in the medieval custom by visiting the cities alehouses to ensure it is palatable.

Throughout the years, this has become a key charity event in York and involves two separate routes around city centre alehouses. In the weeks leading up to the event money is raised by publicans selling squares on a map of the city. A lucky square is then drawn in each pub on the day of the Assize, with half the money going to the winner and half to the charities.

People can get involved by buying the squares in the participating pubs, joining in on the day (medieval dress is traditional) or simply making donations.

There is also a medieval feast at Bedern Hall in the evening, with ale provided by York Brewery.

Money raised from the event will be donated towards the Lord Mayor, Sheriff and Guild Master’s charities, this year SSAFA Forces Help, Special Olympics City of York and York and District Citizens Advice Bureau.

The Guild has been traced back to 1487 and regulated lawyers, scribes and others in the City.