The belated Bollington Civic Sunday Parade & Service was held at the weekend, representing an (almost) return to normal for the Happy Valley.

The traditional Civic Sunday parade took place through the streets of Bollington on September 12 for the first time since 2019.

Bollington Brass Band led the way and the rain managed to hold off for just long enough.

The number of people able to join the service, which took place in the Civic Hall, was limited due to the need ensure the event was COVID-safe, however, the service was recorded and will be made available for people to view on the Town Council's website.

The Mayor of Bollington, Councillor (Cllr) Johanna Maitland and Town Councillors were joined by past Mayors, as well as the Deputy Mayor of Cheshire East, Cllr David Marren.

Also in attendance were the Deputy Mayor of Macclesfield Cllr Fiona Wilson, former Mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Andrew Malloy, Vice Chair of Rainow Parish Council Cllr Alan Taylor, along with Macclesfield and Bollington's MP David Rutley.

The Mayor's Chaplain, Charlotte Simpson, led the service which focused on the Mayor's chosen theme for her year in office – inclusivity, equality and community.

Speakers included the Mayor's Youth Consort, Erin Vincent, David Rutley MP, Denise Hartley-Dickens, Chair of Macclesfield Pride, and the new vicar of Bollington, Reverend Nancy Goodrich.

Those attending the service were encouraged to think about how they can use their power for good, to make a positive change for the benefit of our community whether local or

global.

With this in mind, everyone was asked to make a Citizen's Pledge which were collected and will be published on the council's website.

Those who were not able to attend the service also have the opportunity to make their own Citizen's Pledge by completing the online form on the website.

Cllr Maitland commented, "I hope everyone found the readings thought provoking and perhaps even a little challenging. I would be thrilled if this encourages all of us to reflect on the ways we can incorporate the themes of today's service into our daily lives."

A collection was taken at the end of the service in aid of the Mayor's chosen charities, The Bridgend Centre and The Pink Ribbon Foundation, over £90 was raised.

Also in Bollington news: Bollington's Megan Dixon Hood releases 'Third Lung' from debut album

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