Civic Service 2026 – Celebrating the People of Meltham
On Sunday 13 September 2026, Town Mayor Cllr Lisa Coates welcomed residents, community representatives, councillors and invited guests to the annual Civic Service at St Bartholomew’s Church, Meltham.
The morning began with a procession led by Meltham & Meltham Mills Brass Band, before guests were welcomed by Revd. John Dracup. The service brought together prayer, reflection, readings, music and addresses, with contributions from Meltham Community Choir, Meltham Youth Group, Cllr Jean Wrathall and a representative of Royal Voluntary Service.
A key part of the service was the Act of Commitment to Service, when the Mayor and Town Councillors reaffirmed their commitment to serving the people of Meltham with care, compassion and a shared responsibility for the whole community.
The service concluded with a final hymn accompanied by the Brass Band, the National Anthem and a blessing, before everyone gathered across the road in the Church Hall for refreshments.
The Civic Service was, above all, a celebration of Meltham and its people. As Cllr Coates reflected in her address, “Meltham’s greatest strength has always been its people” — from our volunteers and community groups to our young people, local organisations and residents who give their time to support others.
The Town Council would like to extend its sincere thanks to Revd. John Dracup and the team at St Bartholomew’s Church, Meltham & Meltham Mills Brass Band, Meltham Community Choir, Meltham Youth Group, Royal Voluntary Service and all those who contributed to the service.
Thanks also go to Alasdair Nunn and Thomas Brook for capturing the occasion through photography, and RachAls Kitchen for providing the refreshments afterwards.
Finally, thank you to everyone who joined the procession, attended the service or supported the event. It was a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and look ahead to the year of service and community spirit to come.
