The Independent State of Cuckfield (ISOC) emerged in response to the annexation of land used for the annual Donkey Grand National at Whiteman’s Green, which had previously served as a source of funds for the local community. When the Donkey Races faced effective prohibition, a group of spirited revolutionaries issued a Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) in 1966. The sovereignty of the ISOC, though whimsical, is held in high regard by locals who support it year-round.
All Cuckfield residents automatically attain citizenship in the ISOC without any formal membership fees. The fundamental objective of the ISOC is to raise funds during the annual Mayor’s Election and support local events. Funds raised by candidates are allocated to various organizations, groups, and charities in Cuckfield and the surrounding area, thereby benefiting the community. The ISOC’s events, including the Mayor’s Election, are covered by funds raised outside the election process.
The ISOC holds an annual Mayor’s Election on the third Friday of October. The election process is transparent: whichever candidate raises the most votes wins and becomes the next Mayor. The candidates engage in friendly vote-buying, adding a touch of delightful corruption to the proceedings. The current Mayor (as of 2024) is Jem Lee, who was re-elected with an impressive 1.6 million votes in 2023.
The day after the election, the newly elected Mayor leads a procession through the village and receives the symbolic keys to the village at The Talbot. He is ceremoniously welcomed in full regalia at Holy Trinity during their Sunday morning service on the first Sunday after the election.
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| ISOC Mayor in regalia |
The Independent State of Cuckfield is a blend of whimsy, community spirit, and creative fundraising.
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Power to the people! 🤣 Very interesting, as always 👍🏻💚
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