AT LEAST a dozen town organisations were represented at the service at Crediton Parish Church on Sunday to celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday.

The service was taken by the Rector of Crediton, Preb Nigel Guthrie. The church bells rang in praise, the organ was magnificent as was the choir.

Standards and banners of the Crediton branch of the Royal British Legion, the parish church, Guides, Brownies, Scouts, Army Cadet Force and Sustainable Crediton, were carried in procession through the church.

The Act of Thanksgiving was led by Isobel and Amy of Third Crediton Guides, Readings were read by the Mayor of Crediton Cllr Frank Letch and Catherine Stoyle, deputy Head Chorister.

During his Address Mr Guthrie said Queen Elizabeth II was a record-breaking queen - the longest lived British monarch and the oldest serving monarch in the world.

She was a genuine, caring person who had long had the ability of encouraging others. She had often said how much she relies on her own faith. He said how she had adapted to enormous changes and been a modest queen.

He said she had given herself unstintingly to the service of her people and that her life had always shown the sense of duty she felt towards the people of this country and the Commonwealth.

He quoted from the Queen in 1975: “God commanded us to love our neighbours as ourselves, but what exactly is meant by ‘loving ourselves’?

“I believe it means trying to make the most of the abilities we have been given, it means caring for our talents.

“It is a matter of making the best of ourselves, not just doing the best for ourselves.”

Mr Guthrie said it was especially nice that the Guides and Brownies were among the organisations present and took part in the service because of the Queen’s own Guiding experience when growing up.

After the service most people stayed for a cup of tea or coffee and cakes, sharing much talk and laughter. As well as a service of celebration, it was one of joy.

Sue Read