Mayor’s Blog – February 2025
Posted on: 6 February 2025
The most significant event in January was the recognition of Holocaust Memorial Day and a solemn reminder of the millions of lives lost during that genocide. I lit a candle for a display at the borough council offices and recorded a video to raise awareness of the day on the council’s social media pages. I also did a reading on behalf of the borough at Tewkesbury Abbey in the evening which recognised this important day during evensong.
The Mayoress, Lynne, and I were invited to the 10th anniversary of the Churchdown Craft and Produce Market. We really enjoyed our time chatting to store holders who had an amazing range of individual items for sale. 10 years ago, Paul and Irene Garwood wanted to find a place to sell Irene’s jam and thought ”Why don’t we set up our own market?” As they say, the rest is history. It’s now a great community event with a friendly and open atmosphere. The market is usually held on the last Saturday of each month in St John’s Hall, Churchdown, so give it a try sometime.
The Mayor and Mayoress with Paul and Irene Garwood.
Ashchurch View Care Home invited me to an event called the ‘Pudding Club’. Of course, it would have been rude to say no! Well, I had a lovely welcome and, as I walked in, a group of residents were waiting for my arrival. I have to say, Chef John did the care home proud with an impressive array of goodies. I was also given a tour of the home, greeting those with less mobility in their individual rooms. Samantha, the care home manager, exudes warmth and kindness, and that permeated though the home. So many residents were complimentary of the care they receive. It was Jayne Elbrow’s 91st birthday on the day I was there, and I was delighted to have a photo of Jayne and her daughter.
The Mayor with Jayne Elbrow and her daughter at Ashchurch View Care Home.
Tewkesbury Abbey is holding a special event called Peace Doves until 27 February. 9,000 doves are suspended from the abbey ceiling, with messages from local children and adults expressing their desire for peace – a desire I am sure we all hope and pray for. The display includes visuals and sound. Please do visit, as I am sure you will be moved and impressed in equal measure.
Peace Doves at Tewkesbury Abbey.
