Farnham’s new Mayor, Councillor John Ward has made his promises of office before a congregation, which included the borough Mayors of Waverley, Guildford, Woking and Surrey Heath, local Town Mayors, dignitaries and representatives of the town.

The Farnham Civic Service took place on Sunday (3 July) at St Andrew’s Church. The annual event is held to celebrate the work that goes on to support the town and its people and to officially mark the appointment of a new Mayor.

The service was officiated by the former bishop of St. Albans, the Rt. Rev’d Dr Christopher Herbert, who was assisted by Rev’d Michael Hopkins of the United Reformed Church.

The Rt. Rev’d Dr Christopher Herbert gave the address and highlighted how during a time of national political upheaval, local charities, people in public service, schools, hospitals and businesses are providing the moral backbone of society. He described how it is the people who are motivated to serve and enhance their communities that are society’s social glue. He concluded by suggesting that ‘the underlying moral values of local communities such as Farnham should be reintroduced and reinvigorated as the underlying moral values of our nation’.

Speaking after the ceremony, Councillor John Ward said: “As you can imagine, I am very proud to be Mayor of Farnham for the second time. It is such a privilege to represent the wonderful town of Farnham and to support the community in any way I can in my mayoral year.

“During my year, I have chosen to support the Ridgeway Community School as it embodies the things that concern me most. This wonderful charity helps disadvantaged children and those experiencing difficulties in mobility and communication. I hope to raise money for devices to assist communication or ‘learning through play’ items such as a wheelchair friendly roundabout.”

Throughout the year, the Mayor will be supported by the Mayoress, Mrs Gillian Ward, and Deputy Mayor Councillor Mike Hodge.

Civic Service Group 2016