THE building of bridges between the community and Thorn Cross Prison was celebrated during the annual Bawming of the Thorn festivities this weekend.

The governor of the prison in Appleton Thorn Pia Sinha was invited as the guest of honour to the celebrations on Saturday where she praised the efforts of the community over the past few years.

After being welcomed by the head teacher of Appleton Thorn Primary Craig Burgess, she said: "Two and a half years ago I was at the parish council meeting making my first fragile attempt to connect with the community as the new governor of Thorn Cross.

"It was clear at the meeting that many bridges needed to be built and communication and trust between us needed my urgent attention.

"In that meeting it was Craig [Burgess'] voice of support and reason that gave me hope.

"A primary school and a prison do not always make the best neighbours but it takes trust and sometimes a leap of faith to bring about change."

The Mayor and Mayoress of Warrington cllr Faisal Rashid and wife Aleeza were also present for the parade and ceremony.

Hundreds gathered for the annual parade which saw pupils, parents and community groups walk side-by-side around the village.

This was followed by a rendition of the Bawming Song by Appleton Thorn Village Choir and the traditional dance by pupils from Appleton Thorn Primary.

The knight was played by 11-year-old Charlie Ison while 11-year-old Jack Bramhall stepped up to the role of the page.

The thorn tree, which stands beside the church, is believed to be an offshoot of the Glastonbury thorn.

Legend says Adam de Dutton, a knight of the Crusades and a landowner in the area, brought it to Appleton.