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On Sunday 13 April, St Peter's Church, Raunds, located in the Higham Deanery, held the Civic Service for the Mayor of Raunds, Councillor Paul Byrne. The celebration of the 2024/25 mayoral year provided an opportunity to recognise and thank local individuals and organisations for all their dedicated work in the community.
A parade from the town square to the Church was led by a piper, followed by H.M Lord-Lieutenant James Saunders Watson, the Mayor, Lee Barron MP and Raunds Town Councillors. Also joining the parade were visiting Mayors and dignitaries, and representatives from the Royal British Legion, Raunds Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, Rainbows, Brownies and Guides.
The church service was led by Revd Neil Bullen, Rector of the Four Spires Benefice, and took up the themes of 'Peace, Harmony, and Goodwill’ with the sermon picking up on how by working together, the church, council and wider community can make progress towards achieving these aims.
The readings were The Beatitudes (Matthew Ch5.1-12), read by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, James Saunders Watson and Acts Ch.32-37, read by The Mayor of Raunds, Councillor Paul Byrne Hymn. Additional music was provided by the Raunds Community Choir and Different Direction Choir.
Recipients of this year's Civic Awards were also presented with their certificates, with proud family members and friends in attendance.
A collection in aid of the Church and the Mayor's nominated charities, Alzheimer's Research UK and Children's Air Ambulance, raised over £300 in total.
After the service, the congregation of approximately 160 enjoyed refreshments in the church and an opportunity to share fellowship.