On Sunday 12th March, Mayor Richard Scott welcomed residents of Marlow, members of local organisations and local dignitaries to All Saints’ Church for the Town Mayor’s annual Civic Service.
Deputy Lieutenant Dr Sheena Dykes, BEM, attended together with Chairman of Buckinghamshire Cllr Dev Dhillon; Mayor of High Wycombe, Cllr Arif Hussein; Mayor of Beaconsfield Cllr Alistair Pike; Mayor of Henley, Cllr Michelle Thomas; and Mrs Joy Morrissey MP.
Ali Liebowitz of the Ukraine Collective gave a talk on the work that has taken place in helping Ukrainian Refugees in Marlow, while Matthew House and a young scout from 3rd Bridge Scouts spoke about the benefits of scouting to prepare them for their future lives.
Two excellent choirs sang from Sir William Borlase’s School; the Chapel Choir sang Rainfall by Patti Drennan and the Gospel Choir sang Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars.
Mayor Richard Scott said: “The Civic Service is evidence of the community spirit that exists in our town, demonstrating that the Council and town organisations can work together to support our community. Thank to everyone for attending and for the work that you do, much of it unpaid, for the organisations and charities that you represent.”
The Mayor announced his Lifetime Achievement Award to be presented to Mrs Liz Ferris for her community work over many years. He said: “Liz has given a lifetime of outstanding service to children in Marlow, working with community groups and individual families, including Tiddlywinks, Teeny Saints Children’s groups and Lighthouse.
“In addition to caring for children, she actively supports the elderly, making a point of visiting them, taking them to Holy Communion and supporting their wellbeing in practical and spiritual ways.” Deputy Lieutenant Dr Sheena Dykes presented the Award for Lifetime Achievement Community Recognition to Liz Ferris on the Mayor’s behalf.
Rev. Canon Dave Bull took the service, assisted by Father John Udris and Tony Threlfall.