Over 100 people representing a cross-section of the Farnham community and beyond attended the Mayor of Farnham’s Civic Service on Sunday. Guests witnessed Councillor Pat Evans make her promises of office and commit to serve the town during her year as Mayor. 

The service was held at the Spire Church in Farnham and was led by Rev’d Michael Hopkins with prayers by Rev’d Alan Crawley. 

The Rev’d Dr Lesley Crawley addressed the congregation with a thought-provoking talk about our collective responsibility to do more to protect the environment. She spoke about the challenges of global-warming, sea level rises and sharp falls in the numbers of insects affecting species and biodiversity. 

She praised Farnham Town Council for its recent decision to start a journey to reduce plastic consumption and for working with the local community including schools, businesses and churches to make a difference locally.

Councillor Pat Evans, Mayor of Farnham says: “’Working with the community for the community’ is the theme for my Mayoral year and is why I have chosen to support space2grow – a community garden set in the heart of Farnham and the Hale Community Centre which provides a range of services, activities and meeting spaces for the local area. 

“I am grateful to everybody who came to my civic service and for the messages of goodwill I have received. I feel privileged to be serving the Farnham community and look forward to meeting many of the people who do so much to contribute towards our wonderful supportive community that benefits so many.” 

The civic service was attended by Mayors or Deputy Mayors from Waverley, Alton, Godalming, Fleet, Haslemere, Whitehill and Guildford. 

The retiring collection raised £475 for the Mayor’s charities.