ROLL up, roll up for the biggest show in town - but one with a difference. The Mayor and Mayoress of Haslemere have decided it's time for a change, and this year have chosen not to hold the traditional annual civic service in church, but under a circus big top instead. Ringmaster for the afternoon will be the Mayor of Haslemere, Brian Howard, who has organised the event, set to be attended by mayors and dignitaries from across the borough. Courtesy of Jay Miller's Circus, which will be making its yearly visit to Lion Green, Mr Howard and the mayoress, his daughter Melissa King, see the venue "as an opportunity for an ecumenical service that could draw together all sectors of the community. "Not only could it draw together all the churches but hopefully it will attract some who are not regular churchgoers," Mr Howard told The Herald. And he added: "I also hope that a totally different environment might give a different perspective to both religion and the community. The theme of the service is "every group and every individual can make a difference". Mr Howard said he was hoping that with more space available than in any of the town's churches, the service can be attended by more people. "Normally the civic service is mainly an 'invitation only' event, but this year it is open to all," continued Mr Howard. The service will be conducted by the Methodist Church minister, the Rev Marie Attwood. Among other Haslemere church leaders taking part will be the Rector of Haslemere, the Rev Norman Jones, and Rev Andrew Gready from St Stephen's Church, Shottermill. "It's an opportunity to be different," said Mr Howard. And that's not all, there is a charity cake competition being run in conjunction with the civic service. Mr Howard said he using the competition as "a cunning way of involving more people and maximising on the amount raised for my charities." The competition has two separate classes. One is for professionals, including hotels and restaurants, and the other is a home- baking class open to all keen amateurs. Cakes can be any size, but should be a fruit cake, chocolate cake, lemon sponge or tea bread. And the bonus is that the guests get to eat them at the tea, after the judging. Entries will need to be delivered to the Methodist Church at Junction Place between 10 am and noon on Saturday, September 2, but Mr Howard said it would be helpful if entrants could inform him in advance if they intend to take part. The service, on Sunday, September 3, starts at 3-15 pm and is followed by tea and a full circus performance. Entry is free, but there will be a collection in aid of the mayor's charities, GUTS and Pageant. Anyone who would like a complimentary ringside seat for the civic service and a special performance of the circus, must book their place, either by returning their special invitations, which have already gone out, or by contacting Mr Howard. He can be contacted via Haslemere Town Hall on 01428 654305 or by email at [email protected]">[email protected]
