Madam, What a truly marvellous weekend we have had in Ross to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee

The Church put on a Jubilee Service on Sunday that was well attended, following which there was a Dog Show at the Bandstand, where bands played to accompany the Big Lunch. Many people took advantage of the marquee that was set up to shelter from the rain. Well done to the Jubilee Committee.

We also had a really good display of the Ross Cheer Leaders, who, despite the rain, gave a very entertaining display.

On Monday the weather was much better and the day started off with a 50s Tea Party for the elderly in the Larruperz Community Centre. It was a resounding success with everyone enjoying the music provided by Penelope Wheedon, and singing along to some popular old songs.

The tea and cakes provided by the Larruperz were so scrumptious I had a second helping. Many thanks for all those who helped make the day so enjoyable, in particular Jill Talbot-Ponsonby.

The Monday evening procession through the town left The Chase Hotel and made its way, accompanied by crowds lining the street and cheering, to the Riverside. At the bandstand, a countdown by the crowd preceded the lighting of the beacon on the Prospect, which was cheered as it took hold. This was followed by a fantastic firework display on the riverside.

My thanks to the Ross-on-Wye Lions Club for all the work they did preparing and lighting the beacon, assisting with organising the parade and providing marshalling and for organising and sponsoring the firework display on the riverside, well done Ross Lions

David Ravenscroft

Mayor of Ross-on-Wye