Community Christmas service in Thatcham

The town mayor, Lee Dillon, held his annual civic service with songs, readings and music

THE Thatcham community came together recently to celebrate in a very full St Mary's Church the mayor's annual civic carol service.

It was led by the Rev Mark Bennet, with readings by the head girl at Trinity School, Bethany Coopey, Kennet School head boy, Conor Dick, the deputy mayor of Thatcham, John Boyd,

plus parishioners and representatives from the mayor's charities.

The church choir accompanied the singing and also performed separate pieces, and Barfield Handbell Ringers added to the festive ambience by playing as the congregation arrived and performing three times during the service.

Mayor Lee Dillon said that he was delighted with the turnout and the warm and friendly spirit of people.