The Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Andrew Try, attended the High Sheriff’s Judicial Service at Reading Minster Church of St Mary.

The annual service, organised by the High Sheriff of Berkshire, Mr Sean Taylor DL, marks the ceremonial opening of the Crown Court for the new Judicial Year. The Lord-Lieutenant joined the Mayor of Reading, Dr Alice Mpofu-Coles, and visiting Civic Dignitaries from across Berkshire in a formal procession from Reading Borough Council’s Civic Centre to the Minster, accompanied by the Mini Police, who looked splendid on the day.

The service was also attended by judges from the Court of Appeal, High Court and Crown Court, as well as District and Tribunal Judges and their Clerks and Ushers, and the High Sheriffs of Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire, Chief Constable Jason Hogg of Thames Valley Police, and representatives from many local charities – a reminder of the often-unsung voluntary work that strengthens community life across Berkshire.

The sermon was delivered by the Bishop of Reading, the Rt Revd Mary Gregory.

The morning concluded with refreshments at Reading Town Hall.