TOWN Mayor Cllr Andrew Malloy welcomed dignitaries from across the county for his civic parade and service on Sunday.

The parade was led by the 2056 (Knutsford) Squadron ATC marching band, which played marches as the parade processed from King Street through the town centre and across the Moor to St Cross Church.

Traditionally Civic Sunday is when the new Mayor was ‘introduced’ to the town, and Cllr Malloy was pleased to see so many people watching the parade on a warm, sunny afternoon.

Reverend Paul Deakin, the mayor’s chaplain, gave a service themed around youth and activity in line with the mayor’s fundraising goals this year.

Cllr Malloy opened the service with a welcome address talking about the history of St Cross Church and his family’s close connection with their place of worship.

Cllr Stewart Gardiner, the Deputy Town Mayor, and Mayor’s Cadet Cadence Grace each gave readings during the service.

The congregation of St Cross welcomed the civic guests to their church and church volunteers helped to organise the service and refreshments.

Cllr Malloy said: “Thank you to all who attended my civic parade and service on Sunday.

“Special thanks to the ATC band, which included my cadet Cadence, and to the 2nd Knutsford Scouts, including Beavers and Cubs, and around 10 Mayors, chairmen and consorts from around Cheshire.

“Thanks also to St Cross Church, Reverend Paul Deakin, the wardens and the music group, who did us proud.

“Thanks also to the council staff, volunteers and the police for assisting with the parade.

“I was truly humbled to receive such great support as the parade travelled through the town and within the church.”