COUNCIL bosses are preparing to mark a huge milestone this year by celebrating stories from its employees, volunteers, and residents of the city.

Colchester Council will acknowledge its 50th anniversary by sharing Your Stories - a series of tales which celebrate the hard work of the council’s employees, volunteers, and the city’s residents - over the next ten months.

The stories will also acknowledge all who have a passion for Colchester.

Colchester Council was established following the Local Government Act of 1972.

After the merging of Colchester borough with the West Mersea, Wivenhoe urban districts, and the Lexden & Winstree rural district, the council was officially founded in April 1974.

The council is encouraging the public and Colchester businesses to submit their stories for its celebratory campaign.

The Mayor of Colchester, councillor John Jowers, said: “As the 50th Mayor of the borough, now city, I am proud to be part of the anniversary celebrations to mark this important milestone in local government.

“To mark the anniversary, we are calling on residents and businesses to help us celebrate this milestone.

“This year, we're hoping to come together with our communities to look back on the last 50 years of public service and look forward to the next 50 years to come.”

Residents and businesses are encouraged to contact the council via emailing communications@colchester.gov.uk.