MORE than 60 dignitaries from across Wiltshire took part in Westbury’s first Civic Service for almost 20 years at the weekend.

Westbury Mayor David Bradshaw, along with his wife Myra, organised the procession from The Laverton to the All Saints Church on Sunday (January 31) at 4.30pm.

They were joined by the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Lady Gooch, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire, along with ten mayors from places such as Trowbridge, Warminster and Chippenham.

“It was my idea to bring it back, nearly all the other towns have a Civic Service,” said Cllr Bradshaw.

“It brings everyone together and they promote that town in turn but Westbury was sort of left out of that loop so I thought it would be a good lift for the town.

“I spoke to many people and the feeling was why was it forgotten and why don’t we do it again.

“It does put Westbury back on the map.”

The procession, led by former Westbury Town Crier Sean Price, made its way to the All Saints Church on Church Lane where a service was held by Reverend Steve Jarvis.

After the service the procession then made its way back to The Laverton for refreshments.

“We filled the church with about 160 people so obviously the public thought it was a good idea,” added Cllr Bradshaw.

“I’m pleased that we did it and I would like to see it continue most certainly.

“The feedback and support from the surrounding dignitaries shows it’s a worthwhile thing to do.

“I would be disappointed if it didn’t, there’s no reason why it shouldn’t.”