Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

Monday, 21 December 2009

Today was my Mayoral Carol Service and my thanks go to all those who braved the cold weather to attend.   We started off at Dodshon's Fountain in the High Street for the beginning of the Service, led by Reverend Colin Offer, my Mayor's Chaplain, with the Salvation Army Band and Stockton Male Voice Choir.

We then led those taking part in the Service into the nearby Stockton Parish Church where the service continued the pattern of carols, lessons and prayers  

Once again Mr Arthur Woof, of Redcar & Eston Scout Fellowship, brought to us the Peace Light.  This had been lit by an Austrian Scout in the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem and transmitted by the Scout Movement to many countries of Europe and the USA.  Like most rail passengers for Stockton, it had been handed over at Darlington Station.  

We had hoped that there would be heating in the Church this year but unfortunately due to some setbacks it is still out of action.  Guests went back to the Town Hall afterwards for Christmas cake and mince pies.