On 1 December 1750, a wager took place at the Black Bull Inn, in Maldon High Street.

The gambler lost, because seven men from the Dengie Hundred (a parcel of land) fit into the waistcoat.

[3] On 1 December 1751, a second wager was decided at the Kings Head Inn also in Maldon High Street, for a 'Ham and Chickens and some gallons of wine', when the following nine men fitted into his waistcoat: Bright's portrait was painted in 1750 by David Ogborne[4] (1700–1768), after whose painting various etchings[5] were published, including: In 2000, a bronze relief[6] of seven men in Bright's coat, by sculptor Catharni Stern,[7] was installed at the King's Head Centre off Maldon's High Street, near the site of Bright's home.

Edward Bright was buried in All Saints' church in Maldon on 12 November 1750, aged 29.

He was a very honest tradesman, a facetious companion, comely in his person, affable in his temper, a tender father and valuable friend.