A Service of Civic Commemoration was held yesterday in Sandwell to celebrate the life and public service of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
The Worshipful The Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Dr Ann Jaron, Deputy Council Leader Councillor Maria Crompton and Chief Executive David Stevens joined other invited guests at the ceremony at Holy Trinity Church, in South Road, Smethwick.
These included Mr Gurpreet Bhatia, Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands, representing Lord-Lieutenant John Crabtree OBE, local MPs and representatives from West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service, along with Honorary Freemen of the Borough Blind Dave Heeley, with his wife Debbie and Honorary Alderman Mr Tony Ward.
Jack Murphy, aged 14, also attended with his mother Rachel, on behalf of Sandwell's Youth Parliament.
Reverend David Gould led the ceremony, which followed Church of England service arrangements and was fully compliant with current public health prevention measures and in accordance with government guidance.
The Deputy Lieutenant and The Mayor both reflected on the life of the Prince and his contribution to the country and the wider community, in addition to representatives of the Sikh, Hindu and Muslim Community who offered prayers.