BROMYARD is justly proud of its reputation as the 'Town of Festivals', with the colourful Christmas Lights, the nationally known Folk Festival, the Scarecrows, the Gala and the spectacular Speed Fest amongst others, but none of this would happen without the sterling efforts of those toiling behind the scenes.

And there are many clubs and societies, the Conquest Theatre, Kempson Players, the British Legion, the Tourist Office and the hospital visitors amongst others, organised by many unsung volunteers.

So for the Community Service which takes place on Sunday, March 4 in St Peter's Church, the Mayor Councillor Fred Clark and Mayoress Jan Scrine have chosen the theme of celebrating those whose unpaid efforts contribute so much to the spirit of the town.

The Guides led by 2017 Herefordshire Community Champion Pam Guiver will be singing campfire songs and the children from St Peter's Primary School will also be giving their customary sweetly polished performance. The Bromyard Wind Band will also be represented.

The address with be given by the High Sheriff of Herefordshire, Lady Lisvane, who has been working to combat loneliness during her year in office.

The Vicar of Bromyard and Rural Dean, the Rev Clive Evans, said "We're looking forward to welcoming a range of organisations to Bromyard Parish Church on this special occasion, learning more about what they do and thanking them for the particular contribution they make to the life of our community."

Mayor Fred Clark was delighted with the attendance at last year's Community Service; the collection goes to support his chosen charities, Bromyard Breast Cancer Support and Longlands Care Farm.

" It's a great opportunity to say thank you to those who work so tirelessly to keep our rural community vibrant" he commented, hoping that the event will encourage others to volunteer too. The service will start at 10.30am.

Everyone is welcome to join him on this enjoyable occasion with its underlying serious message; other guests include Deputy Lord Lieutenant Lady McFarlane, Ms Sharon Michael Mayor of Hereford, the Mayors of Upton and Ross-on-Wye and their consorts.