MORE than 150 people turned out to view the unveiling of a mosaic display created by children from the community.

People headed down to the Abbey Grounds on Sunday, July 1, as 42 mosaics mounted on a wall near the Norman Arch created by nearby schools and youth clubs were unveiled.

It was part of the Abbey 900 Festival that took place throughout last year.

Town Cllr Mark Harris officially unveiled the mosaics to visitors.

Corinne Lamus, chairman of the festival organising committee, explained: “The project had to be postponed because of ill health, but I am sure you will agree with me that the outcome has been worth waiting for and we give thanks to Debbie Stirling, who recovered to inspire these wonderful mosaics designed and made by the younger element of our community.”

The Rev Katie Richardson officiated throughout the afternoon, with readings by Cllr Sabrina Poole, Cllr David Fowles and more.

A second ceremony took place shortly after as the assembled group from the mosaics’ unveiling made their way down to the environs of the Abbey 900 tree.

A time capsule was buried near the tree by members of the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts who had been involved in the mosaic making.

Corinne added: “It is because of you, our community in Cirencester, that the Abbey 900 Festival was such a success.

“We have endeavoured to find some objects, for example a scale model of the Abbey and some LEGO examples of bricks and model cannons, together with a few posters and a programme of events to put in the time capsule.

“We have also placed inside a USB data stick of more documents and pictures.

“We can only hope that a future generation uncovering the time capsule will know what a data stick is!

“As the older generation are guardians of the future we have to try to lead by example as we hand over the future of this lovely town and its community to the young.”

Thanks were given to John Tiffney, member of the Abbey 900 steering group, who secured the funding. All were invited to a celebratory reception in the parish church at the end