Mayor making ceremonies taking place today (Sunday)

Newbury and Thatcham pass on mayoral chains

NEWBURY and Thatcham will welcome new mayors

Newbury will bid a civic farewell to outgoing mayor Howard Bairstow at today's ceremony at the Corn Exchange.

He will hand over the mayoral robes and chain to deputy mayor Julian Swift-Hook, who will become the town's 420th mayor.

David Fenn will assume the role of deputy mayor.

The ceremony begins at 10am and will be followed by a civic reception at St Nicolas Church.

Thatcham's mayor making ceremony will begin at 3pm in the Frank Hutchings Community Hall.

The town mayor Sheila Ellison will stand down as mayor and town councillors will elect a new mayor and deputy mayor on the day.

Ellen Crumly is the current deputy mayor.

Elsewhere in the district, take a gentle stroll to explore heathland, woodland edges and hidden ponds on Greenham Common between 10.30am and 12.30pm.

You can also explore the Open Garden Sandleford Place, Newtown, between 2pm-6pm. In aid of www.nationalgardensscheme.org.uk

Or you can Sing your heart out: a singalong with the Newbury Spring Festival Chorus being held at the Corn Exchange, 1.30pm workshop (arrival from 1pm), 5.30pm performance. £10 workshop participation, £5 concert only. Box office 0845 5218218

Sheepdrove Piano Competition Final, Sheepdrove Eco Centre, Lambourn, 3pm. £20 (includes afternoon tea). Box office 0845 5218218