The Mayor’s Civic Parade on Sunday began with an announcement by Jer Holland, Cinderford's Town Crier.

He extended an invitation to the townsfolk to attend the civic service held in St Thomas’ Church in Overmonnow, led by the Reverend Julie Barrell, the Mayor’s Chaplain, Consort and wife.

After the traditional Oyez calls, the town crier bid everyone a warm welcome to Monmouth, “a town nestled between the rivers Monnow and the Wye.

“Rich in its history and stunning architecture, you’ll be sad to say goodbye.

“Home of the Nelson Museum with many of Horatio Nelson’s artefacts, there’s quite an amazing hoard, from his personal letters, items of clothing, and his fighting sword.

“Here lies the gateway to Wales, the birthplace of a King, home of a renounced studio where the stars come to sing.”

He finished with an invitation to join them for a service in the church.

The town council are trialling the services of a town crier before possibly appointing one for Monmouth.

Led by Standards of the Royal British Legion - Gerry Bright, the Royal Naval Association - Tony Martin and the Royal Engineers Association - Ian Donald, the mayoral party was accompanied by the Town Clerk, Caitlin Williams, the Mayor Of Chepstow, Vanessa Badderley-Potter and her consort Michael, and the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Monmouth, Tim Haynes.

The mayor, Cllr Rob Barrell, was ‘guarded’ by his macebearers, Caroline Bright and John Moylett.

Also present in the parade was the town council cadet, Ella Cooper

A Notice of Election for the Drybridge Ward to be held on July 30, 2026, will see Independent candidate Laura McCartney, go head to head with Local Conservative Dani Seymour.

It follows the recent resignation of Cllr Fiona Wilcock. There will be another by-election for Osbaston as Cllr Emily Fairman has also stood down.