Posted on Saturday 10th September 2022
Representing Staffordshire County Council at the wreath-laying service were, from left, Leader Alan White, Chairman Paul Snape and Chief Executive John Henderson.
Wreaths were laid in memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II this morning at a solemn church service.
Staffordshire civic leaders attended the public service at St Mary’s Church in the centre of Stafford.
Conducted by Fr John Davis, town centre chaplain for Stafford, Fr Danny Payne, curate of St Mary’s and Rev Prebendary Michael Newman, the short service offered prayers for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and her family, and there was a reading from Mr Ian Dudson CBE, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire.
Alan White, Leader of Staffordshire County Council, said:
Although it was a moment for representatives of the community to pay their formal respects to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the service also provided a peaceful moment for all those present to reflect on the long years of devoted service to the country.
It was also an opportunity to consider the importance that the former Monarch placed upon the role of religious faith during her reign.”
As well as HM Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, the service was attended by the High Sheriff of Staffordshire Ben Robinson MBE DL. Also present, representing Staffordshire County Council, were Leader Alan White, Chairman Paul Snape and Chief Executive John Henderson CB. Representing Stafford Borough Council were Leader Patrick Farrington, Deputy Mayor Peter Jones and Chief Executive Tim Clegg.
At the end of the service four wreaths were laid on the high altar. Then the Lord Lieutenant, High Sheriff, Chairman of Staffordshire County Council and Deputy Mayor of Stafford Borough Council signed an official book of condolence – one of 19 across the county.
A memorial service will also be held at St Mary’s Church next Sunday at 12:30.