The ancient office of Recorder of Exeter is first documented in 1352, when the salary was £3 per year.  The post has its origins in the city's law officer, first recorded in 1246.  The origins of the post of Town Clerk go back to the 12th century: a deed of about 1160 mentions a Records Clerk.  The post was superseded in 1974.  However, on 15 May 2007, the post was reinstated on an honorary basis when His Honour Judge Graham Cottle was appointed City Recorder.  The post is now held by His Honour Judge Francis Gilbert who succeeded Judge Cottle on the 16 October 2012. He now regularly supports the Lord Mayor at Civic functions.