Bolton mayor leads Civic Sunday parade and service

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal, of Great Lever, stepped into the spotlight once again as crowds gathered in the town centre for a long-standing tradition.

Councillors, cadets, church leaders and residents lined the streets as the new Mayor of Bolton led his first Civic Sunday parade following his inauguration earlier this week.

The procession began in Victoria Square shortly after 10.35 am before making its way through the town centre towards Bolton Parish Church for a civic service attended by councillors, honoured guests and members of the public.

The Mayor of Bolton, Mohammed Iqbal. (Image: NQ)

Cllr Iqbal said: “My Mayoress and I are delighted that so many people have joined us here to share this special day.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for coming along to show your support; it really means so much to both of us.”

Members of the public from all over showed up, including Phil and Sam Cunningham, who went for their child in the cadets.

They said: “We’re very proud. Our son joined the Sea Cadets when he was 12; he’s now in the Royal Navy and 20 at the moment. This would be my daughter’s last parade.

Phil and Sam Cunningham (Image: NQ)

“We’ll probably still come.”

Cadets marched in formation behind the mayoral party as the procession travelled along Hotel Street, Deansgate and Churchgate before arriving at the parish church.

The service began with a hymn and welcome from Rev Hannah Lane before prayers, readings and an address from the Bishop of Bolton, The Right Reverend Dr Matthew Porter.

A collection was also held during the service in support of the mayor’s chosen charities.

The Mayor was at the back of the parish church. (Image: NQ)

Cllr Iqbal added: “We are committed to working hard in the year ahead, to promote and celebrate our town as well as give support to those in need.

“We are also determined to support and encourage the fine work of the many charitable and voluntary organisations in our town.”

The service concluded with civic prayers, the National Anthem and refreshments for guests inside the church.