Council Chairman Dennis Wilde's Civic Service

Council Chairman Dennis Wilde was joined by dignities, fellow Councillors and friends at his Civic Service this weekend.

More than 100 people attended the ceremony, held in the beautiful setting of Angmering at the Angmering Baptist Church on Sunday, June 26. Guests included Littlehampton and Bognor Regis MP Nick Gibb and the High Sherriff of West Sussex, Mr David Tupper.

As well as prayers and blessings, readings were also given by Arun's Chairman and Vice Chairman Councillor Mrs Ann Smee.

Councillor Wilde, pictured left with wife Enfys, said: "I was delighted to see so many people attend and from far and wide. I am grateful to them all and proud to have shared such a lovely afternoon with them all.

"This was an important event in bringing together community representatives, groups, mayors and chairman from councils across West Sussex

"It made me thankful again for all the good things which we share living in the beautiful district of Arun."

Councillor Wilde used the service as an opportunity to tell guests about his chosen charity for his term of office and appeal for support. A collection at the end of the service raised £225.00 for the Chairman's chosen charity, Macmillan Cancer Support. Mandy Kendall, Fundraising Manager for Sussex was in attendance at the service and said: "We are so pleased that Arun's Chairman chose Macmillan Cancer Support and delighted and touched by the generosity of his guests in donating to Macmillan."

During the next 12 months the chairman will do all he can to raise as much money as possible for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Councillor Wilde said: "Macmillan Cancer Support works to improve the lives of people affected by cancer by guiding them and helping them every step of the way. They fund nurses and other specialist health care professionals and build cancer care centres. Please join me at my fundraising events throughout the year and help me raise funds for MacMillan Cancer Support, such a worthy cause."

The service closed with a rousing performance of the National Anthem