A CIVIC service to celebrate the coming year Taunton Deane Mayor Cllr Vivienne Stock-Williams has been held in Wellington's St John the Baptist Church.

It was led by the Rev Tim Treanor and Mayor’s chaplain the Rev Preb Christopher Rowley.

The congregation of 120 people included mayors and representatives of other local authorities, the emergency services and cadet forces, while Deputy Mayor Cllr Hazel Prior-Sankey gave a reading.

During the service, the Mayor’s chaplain conducted a ceremony confirming the commitment of councillors to their electorate and the commitment of citizens to their councillors.

There was also a celebration of the relationships with other local authorities including West Somerset and Somerset County Councils, Taunton Deane MP Rebecca Pow and the twin towns of Lisieux and Konigslutter.

Lance Cpl Paul Bowler, 16, of Taunton Sea Cadets and the Royal Marine Cadets was sworn in as the Mayor’s cadet to assist Mrs Stock-Williams in her work for the community.

A retiring collection was made for the Mayor’s charities - the Children’s Hospice South West, Reminiscence Learning and the Somerset National Gardens Scheme, raising £349.

Mrs Stock-Williams said: “I was delighted that so many people were able to celebrate with me. It was a truly memorable day and I am grateful for all the support I received.”