Catalogue Number
NMLH.2026.3.1
Object Name
Mayoral Robes
Title
Mayoral Robes worn by Carl Austin-Behan
Place
Manchester, Greater Manchester
People
Carl Austin-Behan
Events
Manchester Pride
Date
2016
Description
Mayoral Robes created for Manchester Pride 2016, worn by then Lord Mayor of Manchester Carl Austin-Behan.
The robes area bright pink synthetic velvet, with black trim. A band which sits around the neck and down the front of the robes has the 'Manchester Bee' motif embroidered on to it. The robes close through hook and eye fastenings and buttons. The sleeves have a double length, with one section going to around the wrist, and then a longer, trailing sleeve. Some parts of the robes have faded, especially over the shoulders.
Carl Austin-Behan joined the RAF at the age of 19 before being forced to leave due to his sexuality. He went on to serve with Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service before making a move into business, charity, and politics. In 2016, Austin-Behan became the first openly gay Lord Mayor of Manchester, and in 2018 became LGBT Adivsor to the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham.
