THIS year's civic parade took place on Sunday (5th July) and was led by macebearers John Blake, Mike Brown and Caroline Bright.

Following behind the mayoral party and civic leaders were Standards from the Royal British Legion and the Royal Naval Association.

Representatives from the RMRE(MON), St John Ambulance, Ross and Monmouth Sea Cadets, scouts, guides and brownies were also present.

During the service, the mayor, Councillor Graham Pritchard, placed his badge of office on the High Altar and the congregation prayed for the work of the town council to be strong and sustained in the community of Monmouth.

In his address, the Mayor of Monmouth, Cllr Graham Pritchard, spoke of his pride at being given the opportunity to represent his town.

The mayor's three charities for the year are the British Heart Foundation, Alzheimer Society (Monmouth) and Monmouth Youth Project.

Following on, refreshments were served at The Priory.

•Local Assembly Member for Monmouth, Nick Ramsay, was pleased to attend the service saying, "it was a pleasure to be in Monmouth on this special occasion.

"It was particularly good to have the chance to catch up with the current mayor, former mayors and also visiting dignitaries from other areas.

"The mayor's address was inspiring, whilst Rev David McGladdery's reference to the 'spilling of blood for the town' origin of the mayoral red robes was particularly moving.

"I look forward to working with the mayor over the coming months to do what we can to improve the lives of the people of Monmouth