From the early 15th century, the freemen governed Norwich in relative harmony for 250 years – in marked contrast to other large rival towns in England such as Bristol, York and Newcastle.

In 1289 Hugh de London was fined 12d ‘because he buys and sells in the city and is not of the freedom’

Ed Balls’ ancestors were Norwich Freemen between 1404 and 1913, but the succession has lapsed and he is no longer eligible.

Until 1835 only freemen could vote in the Norwich local elections. This created problems as rate payers did not have the right to vote.