Wimborne Minster church will be opening its doors on Sunday 12 March for a special annual event arranged by the Town Council in collaboration with the church. Each year the Mayor hosts a thanksgiving service in Wimborne Minster and it always proves to be a very popular date in the town’s diary. Everyone is welcome to attend, subject to the capacity of the Minster.

Cllr Carol Butter, the Mayor said: “The town will be welcoming civic dignitaries from across Dorset and neighbouring parishes to Wimborne Minster. Colours and standards from a number of local organisations will be presented at the start of the service and will also take part in a parade into the Minster, along with the Mayor’s serjant and crier, Wimborne Militia, civic dignitaries and local town councillors. This event provides an opportunity to recognise and give thanks to all the local community groups, organisations and volunteers that have supported and made an impact within our town and community.”

The parade will commence at 2.15-2.30pm from Church House, on to the High Street, turning into The Square, then turning into Church Street and entering The Cornmarket and onto the pathway to the Minster, where an official photograph will be taken to commemorate the day.

The service will be conducted by the Rev Canon Andrew Rowland, rector of Wimborne Minster Benefice and rural dean of Wimborne, with singing led by the Minster Choir.

The Mayor’s sergeant and crier, supported by the Wimborne Militia, will be in attendance, performing their role as ‘protector of the mayor and the town from disorder and rebellion’.

The service will be at 3pm, so people need to ensure they are seated by 2.50 pm. The service is expected to last approximately 45 minutes, after which refreshments will be served at Church House followed by a demonstration of musketry by the Militia on the Minster Green.