Ross-on-Wye Mayor, Cllr Louis Stark, highlighted the importance of having a vibrant voluntary and community sector in Ross during the Town Council’s Civic Service on Sunday 25th February at St Mary’s Church.

The Service, conducted by Revd Sean Semple, was attended by His Majesty’s Representative, Paul Deneen OBE JP DL, The High Sheriff, Town Councillors, Former Ross Mayors, Mayors from surrounding towns, and representatives from local community groups.

In his speech at the Mayor’s Civic Service on Sunday, Cllr Louis Stark extolled the value of having a strong and vibrant voluntary and community sector in Ross. Cllr Stark said: “This was essential for plugging any gaps in public service provision and in building long-lasting and trusting relationships with those needing help.”

The Mayor mentioned his charity of the year, EnviroAbility, as being a key part of this sector helping the most vulnerable in Ross to acquire work experience, life and technical skills and the confidence to play a more active part in daily life.

Also mentioned was the Community Food Larder, which the Mayor described as a wonderful example of the community pulling together to help the most needy. Lastly, the Mayor drew on the aims of our Community Development Trust (CDT)

Ross-on-Wye Town Council would like to thank Rev’d Sean Semple, Paul Deneen OBE JP DL, Rev’s Colin Leggate, David Ravenscroft, St Mary’s Church Youth Choir, Paul Cummings, the Church Wardens and to all who attended the service.