MAYOR of Kingsteignton Cllr Ron Peart hosted his annual Civic Service held at the town’s Community Hall.

Fellow dignitaries from neighbouring towns and parishes, including the Mayor of Teignmouth Cllr Cate Williams and the Mayor of Dawlish Cllr Lin Goodman-Bradbury, joined other invited guests at the event.

Town Crier Jackie Edwards officially opened proceedings followed by Cllr Peart’s welcome ahead of Reverend David Goddard of Kingsteignton Community Baptist Church lighting the Advent Candle. A group of 20 children from Rydon Primary School’s Choir sang their hearts out and brought Christmas cheer to everyone who attended.

Cllr Peart gave his Mayoral Address and a presentation of events that had taken place throughout his Mayoral year.

Soloist Paul Cobley entertained the crowd with his three hearty vocal performances which raised the roof.

Readings at the event were given by Jackie Edwards, Liz Thompson, Father Mark Smith of St. Michael’s Church in Kingsteignton and members of Kingsteignton Baptist Church.

Reverend Goddard had his audience mesmerised with his magic performance using a red cabbage, a blender and some chemicals, to produce the seven colours of the South African flag.

These colours portray a rainbow which is the symbol of promise.

Kingsteignton Community Baptist Church musicians performed the music for the carol singing.

Some of the church’s team also served refreshments and assisted in the kitchen.

A retiring collection was made for the Mayor’s Charity which is ‘Walking Alongside’ KingsCare Mental Health Support.

Cllr Peart thanked everyone for attending and those who took part before wishing everyone a happy, healthy Christmas and his good wishes for the New Year.

The evening concluded with all those in attendance enjoying a buffet and refreshments before leaving to go home.