CHRISTIANS together in Okehampton (CtiO) have appointed a new chairman, the Rev Mark Thomas, of All Saints Parish Church, who succeeds the Rev Mike Davies. Mr Thomas, a curate in Okehampton for two years, told the annual meeting: ?It is a very supportive group of people. There is a very positive attitude between the different churches and I hope to be able to foster that, maintain it and keep it active?. He paid tribute to Mr Davies, saying he would be a hard act to follow. Mrs Norma Hynes, St Boniface RC Church, will remain as vice-chairman, the Rev Philip Wagstaff, Fairplace Methodist and URC, as treasurer and Mrs Ann Pantrey, All Saints Parish Church, as secretary. The Society of Friends (Quakers) have been welcomed into CtiO. Mr Davies said he was sure they would add a new and fresh dimension to the group. Mr Wagstaff provided a brief report on the financial position of CtiO. The Rev Simon Taylor, ecumenical officer for Churches together in Devon, talked on the workings of the organisation. He spoke of an activity day, STAR TRACK, planned by Devon?s churches to be held on November 26, at Belmont Chapel, Exeter. Mrs Sally Bainborough, from the Christian Police Association, talked on the provision of a new resource board, produced jointly by the CPA and Care for the Family and the need to financially support such resources within local police stations. She also asked of the possible provision of children?s workers for the next CPA family weekend away which is to be held locally between September 23 and 25. Okehampton?s Connect workers, Ben and Louise, reported on the work they are doing in the town. It is partly funded by local churches, although additional funds are required urgently. They are working within Okehampton College, offering lesson support, running lunchtime clubs and have re-started the Christian Union in the new name of Resolve. Kevin Smallacombe, of Bow Congregational Church, advised that a special youth service would be held at Fairplace Church at 7pm on June 4. This is being advertised as ?Secret Uncovered?. At 6pm on July 16, again at Fairplace Church, there would be youth workshops about sex and relationships, smoking and drugs, alcohol and parties. Further details can be obtained on 01363 82708. Mr Wagstaff drew attention to Stowford Youth Camp which is to be held between June 24 and 26 this year. The next CtiO Sunday service will be held at Okehampton Baptist Church on Sunday, July 17, starting at 6pm. l Okehampton?s mayor and mayoress, Cllr Tony and Mrs Sue Leech, attended the recent CtiO service in the Charter Hall. The sermon was provided by the Rev David Waters from New Life Assemblies of God, during which he asked local church ministers to join him in presenting a towel of servanthood to the mayor and mayoress. The presentation was seen as symbolic to the town and its mayor, that the local churches are willing to serve the local community. Worship was led by Mr Davies, with Mrs Joyce Cuff (Salvation Army) providing opening prayers. Bible readings were by Brenda Hockeridge (Fairplace Church) and Kevin Ball (Inspiration). The service concluded with prayers and a blessing by Father Peter Morgan (St Boniface RC Church).