THE best of Ellesmere’s community groups was celebrated last week with a special day held at the town’s market hall.

The Scotland Street building was transformed into a bustling centre of activity as community groups took the opportunity to showcase what they do.

Nearly 40 clubs, societies, charities and other organisations set up stalls to sell themselves and encourage other townspeople to get involved.

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Scouts, Guides, the Amateur Dramatic Society, church bell-ringers and the model railway enthusiasts were all there, together with the cricketers, carnival committee and the community cars volunteers.

Border Counties Advertizer: Fizzgigs.Fizzgigs. (Image: John Shone.)

The event was organised by the Ellesmere town mayor Councillor Anne Wignall, who was delighted by the response.

“I was really pleased that so many different organisations took a stand,” she said.

“A lot of useful networking went on between the various groups as well as with other members of the public.

“It was a great opportunity for people to discover the many and varied activities that Ellesmere has to offer

“There was a terrific atmosphere in the market hall and everyone said they had an enjoyable time.

Border Counties Advertizer: Mere Melodies Choir. Mere Melodies Choir. (Image: John Shone.)

“I have been asked if I can make this an annual event.

“If the demand is there and community groups would like to come along, I think we should definitely consider doing it again.

“I would like to thank everyone for their hard work in creating their displays and putting in the effort to look after their stands throughout the day.

Thanks also to the Fizzgigs Community Arts group for providing live music, to the Pete’s catering team for the food and drink and to Alex Hunter from Project SY12, which runs the market hall for making it all go smoothly.”

Jean Ferris, from the Ellesmere branch of the Save the Children, added: “I’d like to thank the mayor for taking the initiative in organising this event.

Border Counties Advertizer: The Ellesmere Food Share. The Ellesmere Food Share. (Image: John Shone.)

“It was a great opportunity for us to raise awareness of the charity and recruit some new volunteers.”

Susan Ardill, chair of the Mere Melodies choir and co-editor of the Mere News community magazine, added: “Thanks to the mayor for a brilliantly organised day.

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“It was really worthwhile, and so good to meet and chat to volunteers from other groups and to swap experiences.”

Bob McBride, chairman of the Royal British Legion’s Ellesmere and District branch, added: We really enjoyed the chance to engage with other groups and promote our own.

“Nobody can ever say there is nothing to do in Ellesmere.”