Congleton came together for the Town Mayor's Civic Parade and Service.

Taking place on Sunday, September 13, this year's Civic Service focused on public service, reflecting councillor Suzy Firkin's mayoral theme and recognising not only those who work in formal public service, but also the volunteers, charities, community groups and individuals who give their time to make Congleton a thriving and caring place to live.

The service also highlighted the three local charities chosen by the mayor as the focus of her fundraising activities - No Tier Snooker, Friends for Leisure and Lower Moss Wood Wildlife Hospital.

Councillor Firkin said: "The Civic Service gave us an opportunity to celebrate those contributions and to say thank you to everyone.

"Public service is not just about those in formal roles; it is also about the volunteers, community groups, charities and individuals who give so much of themselves to help others.

The afternoon began with the Civic Parade, which set off from Antrobus Street Car Park led by Rode Hall Silver Band and featured a range of local organisations, community groups, young people and civic representatives.

Taking part were Congleton Pride, Elizabeth's Group, Congleton Town Youth Council, Congleton Rotary, Congleton Museum, 230 Squadron RAF Air Cadets, Royal British Legion – Congleton Branch, Congleton U3A, The Beartown Rickshaw, Congleton Street Pastors, the White Ribbon Group, and Beavers, Cubs, Rainbows and Brownies from across the town.

Arriving at Congleton Town Hall for the Civic Service, among those in attendance were the High Sheriff of Cheshire, the Sheriff of Chester, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire, and MP for Congleton.

Music was a central part of the service, with performances from Congleton Choral Society and Rode Hall Silver Band. The Choral Society performed You Raise Me Up and Make Me a Channel of Your Peace, while the congregation joined together for Jerusalem.

A significant moment in the service saw the town mayor reaffirm her commitment to the office of mayor and to serving the people of Congleton.

Councillor Firkin pledged to serve with integrity, tolerance and dedication, to represent the town, champion local causes and be a voice for all residents.

The service concluded with a reading of In Flanders Fields by Steve Evans, Chair of the Congleton Branch of the Royal British Legion, followed by the National Anthem.

Councillor Firkin said: "It was a real privilege to bring together so many people who give their time, energy and commitment in service to others and to our community.

"I was particularly delighted to see so many local organisations take part in the parade, demonstrating the incredible range of people who give their time and make a difference in Congleton.

"I would like to thank everyone who took part, a particular thank you goes to Congleton Choral Society and Rode Hall Silver Band for their wonderful performances, and to our Town Crier Vicky Pulman and Mace Bearer Cllr Suzie Akers-Smith. Thanks to the hi-vis team and parade marshal Steve Evans for helping the parade to run so smoothly.

"The afternoon captured beautifully what public service is all about – giving of yourself for the benefit of others, supporting those around you and helping to build a stronger community. I am incredibly proud of the community spirit we have here in Congleton."