St Bartholomew's and All Saints Church was packed to celebrate the contribution made by volunteers to the community.

The Mayor’s Civic Service is held at the church each year to recognise the work done by volunteers, including councillor Mike Leighfield, who received his 10-year service award in a surprise presentation.

“It was totally unexpected,” he said. “I very nearly wasn’t able to receive it in fact, because I had another meeting, but I decided to go to the civic service instead.

“I didn’t know anything about it at all.

“I was a councillor for four years about 20 years ago so it’s in recognition of the cumulative 10 years’ service to the council.

“It really comes from just wanting to give something back to the community. I’ve been mayor twice and I’ve always said that the mayor isn’t the first citizen but the first servant of the community and you do the best that you can for the town.

“The service went very well I thought and it was very well attended.”

The mayor, Councillor Sue Hughes, said: “I am inspired by the contribution of volunteers to organisations that support our community and enhance the quality of our lives and there is rarely an opportunity to note and thank them, so we wanted to ensure that they know now that they are valued.”