Mayor reflects on Thatcham civic carol concert raising over £200 for charity

The St Mary’s and St Barnabas Church Community came together this week for a Civic Carol Service in aid of two local charities.

The Thatcham mayor, John Boyd reflected on the "open and giving" nature of those who attended and donated to his charities of choice.

More than £253 was raised on December 13 for Thatcham Town Cricket Club and Swings & Smiles.

Guests were joined by the High Sheriff of Berkshire, the Lord Lieutenant, both the Mayors of Thatcham and Newbury and various councillors.

The mayor of Thatcham also gave a speech about coming together at Christmas time noting that “some people may hope for the new iPhone, X box, a designer puffer jacket, some people want to just see friends and family.

“Some hope for a dry bed and a hot meal, somewhere safe to take their children, whether they are fleeing political persecution or bombs and bullets".

He said afterwards: “It was attended very well considering the restrictions, which makes the total that we collected even more remarkable.

“It was a nice event, my message at the end was received quite well, which was a bonus. You never know what to say at times like these".

He reflected on the Thatcham light switch-on and how well received his guests, new residents of Thatcham from China, were received by the crowd.

He said: “When I introduced them to Thatcham, the response was applause.

“Think of the message that must have sent to these families when they see this reaction.

“It goes to show people are open and giving at this time of year".