I, together with Edwina Copper, the Mayoress and the Mayor’s attendant went to the ceremonial crown court opening service at Reading Minster on 2 October. Prior to the service, we were entertained by the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Chris Maskell for coffee at the Mayor’s Parlour in the Civic Centre. Most of the Mayors of Berkshire and Chairmen of Unitary Authorities were present and it was good to meet up with the Mayors of Thatcham, Phil Dray and Hungerford, Peter Harries and their wives. Irene Neill represented West Berkshire Council. We then processed from the Civic Centre to the Minster where we were shown to our respective seats. The main procession then began and the High Sheriff, Harry Henderson, the Under Sheriff, the High Court Judge, Mr Justice Keith together with other legal representatives, as well as barristers, proceeded the Archdeacon and Bishop of Reading.
The service lasted about an hour and I thought the opening hymn was very apposite for this rather special service. It was Dear Lord and Father of Mankind, forgive our foolish ways!
Afterwards, we proceeded back to the Mayor’s Parlour for a glass of sherry before travelling back to Newbury. It was quite a ceremony as well as a service and this has been part of the legal process which has been in existence for hundreds of years.
The service lasted about an hour and I thought the opening hymn was very apposite for this rather special service. It was Dear Lord and Father of Mankind, forgive our foolish ways!
Afterwards, we proceeded back to the Mayor’s Parlour for a glass of sherry before travelling back to Newbury. It was quite a ceremony as well as a service and this has been part of the legal process which has been in existence for hundreds of years.
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