Mayor of Newbury

Last Blog Entry

2007-05-13T19:31:00.000+01:00

Well, that's it from me! This blog is called Mayor of Newbury, and I'm not anymore. Adrian is hoping to start his own blog, so keep your eyes peeled for that - it may be attached to the Town Council's website (www.newbury.gov.uk).

When I finish this paragraph and press 'publish' it will seem so final - therefore I may well start another blog soon (if I get withdrawal symptoms) though I'm not sure what form it will take, and it may be anonymous; having been careful with what I've said for the last year it will be fun to be able to say what I like! Thanks for reading, I hope it has been informative. Dont forget you can email me on gillian.durrant@btinternet.com.

Mayor Making 2007

2007-05-13T19:22:00.000+01:00

It doesn't feel like a year has passed since I became Mayor (actually it isn't a year, just 51 weeks!), but today was Mayor Making again, and I donned the robe and chain for the last time and processed with the Councillors from the Town Hall to the Corn Exchange for the time honoured tradition of Mayor Making.

I still find it hard to deliver a speech in front of so many, but I got through it. By the time we exited stage left to change robes I felt quite light - not just the lack of heavy robes and chain, but the end of the responsibility too. I sat back on stage without the robe and hat for the first time in eleven consecutive Mayor Making ceremonies, and then processed back to the Town Hall for the last time. It is a sad day for me, to be breaking off my connections with the council after so long, but I also feel relieved, and I'm looking forward to having more time for myself and my family.

I'm pictured with my successor, Councillor Adrian Edwards - the robes look a little shorter on him!

My Final Reception

2007-05-11T14:17:00.000+01:00

Last night at the Town Hall I hosted my final reception.

About 50 guests came - a whole range of people who had been involved in my Mayoral year in various capacities. It was poignant to see some councillor colleagues for the last time in an official capacity at the Town Hall, and it had the feeling of an end of an era - several comments were made about the co-incidental timing with Blair's resignation speech, and the end of my ten years on the council. Joyce had printed this entire blog and stuck it up all around the council chamber - hundreds of photos of my official engagements over the last twelve months.

It is also sad to say goodbye to the staff, many of whom I have now known for a number of years. I handed some gifts to the civic staff and we all tucked in to a curry from the New Greenham Tandoori. A number of Stuart's partners from Gardner Leader came too, and kindly sponsored the drinks for the reception.

I persuaded Joyce and Carol, my civic manager and attendant to pose for a photo - two wonderful women who usually take these blog photos rather than appear in them!

Bussock Wood Charity Coffee Morning

2007-05-11T14:02:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I went along to the charity coffee morning run by the friends of the West Berkshire Community Hospital. Former council colleagues Mavis and Peter Greenhalgh were helping run the raffle and cake stalls.

Bussock Wood is a beautiful Georgian country house on the edge of Snelsmore Common just north of Newbury. The owners Mr and Mrs Palmer (descendants of the Biscuit Barons!) were gracious hosts. Mrs Palmer kindly showed me some of the wonderful paintings she has collected in her 57 year marriage - each one with sentimental attatchments.

The hospital friends do a fantastic job of fundraising. When Peter Greenhalgh was Mayor they set out to raise a million pounds for extra medical equipment, and it took them just over a year. They still fundraise three years on, and continue to provide state of the art equipment to make our new hospital one of the best around. Pictured from the left are Mavis Greenhalgh, Sylvia Galbraith, Mrs Palmer and me.

First Meeting of the new Council

2007-05-11T13:49:00.000+01:00

On Wednesday evening I chaired the first meeting of the new council following the elections. It is a curious position to be in, as it was the last time I will take the chair, and for many of those around the room it was the first meeting they had been to.

For the first time the political parties are nearly equal in number - just one seat between them, so it will make for interesting meetings in the next four years. Before the meeting started all the Town Council staff came along for a group photo with new councillors, and to introduce themselves. All the full and part time staff came (except the town crier who is on holiday), it was an excellent turn out. We also had all bar one councillor present.

I had met most of the new councillors in the two 2.5 hour training sessions I helped Graham Hunt to run in the last couple of days - they seemed keen, and I wish them well.

Newbury Art Group Exhibition

2007-05-07T10:34:00.000+01:00

Also last Friday, I was asked to open the Newbury Art Group Exhibition at the Town Hall. This is the first time they have held the exhibition in the Council Chamber, and it certainly looked very at home in its new setting.

Newbury Art Group has been around in its present form since just after the second world war, and its predecessor was started in the 1890s. There is work from dozens of keen amateurs on show - many watercolours and acrylic, but also some mixed media. There were some very accomplished paintings of local landmarks and country scenes.

I popped back to the Town Hall on Sunday, and vice - chairman Alan Sporne told me that they had had over 200 people visit the exhibition on Saturday, and that it was going very well. The exhibition is on at the Town Hall for the rest of the week (except Wednesday I believe).

Launch of Open Studios Exhibition

2007-05-04T16:15:00.000+01:00

Today I was a guest at the launch of this year's Open Studios exhibition at New Greenham Arts.

I thoroughly recommend this free exhibition to all art lovers - the quality of the work, and the variety of materials and styles used are stunning. This is a taster of the work to be seen when visiting the artists involved in their own studios during the month of May. West Berkshire and North Hampshire are extremely well endowed with talented professional artists, and as ever Pat Eastop has produced a beautifully illustrated catalogue and well presented exhibition. The exhibition was opened by Lord and Countess Carnarvon, and we were all treated to a buffet lunch at the New Greenham Tandoori next door.

Beating the Bounds by Bike

2007-05-01T17:21:00.000+01:00

On Sunday afternoon we joined about 60 other people to go on a cycle ride round the town's boundary. Beating the Bounds is a traditional part of parish life, but it is not usually done on a bike! Spokes, the local cycling group organised the day and the route, and Spokes member and Town Council Chief Executive, Graham Hunt lead the way.

We started and finished at the Starting Gate pub, which is on the boundary, and set off Southwards off-road by Speen Moor, and over the canal. Unfortunately at this early point my younger son Louis fell off his bike and badly scratched himself. He limped home with Dad, and we met up again at the end when we all had sausage and chips in the pub garden.

The weather was glorious and the countryside was looking its best with fresh leaves and blossom everywhere. It was a very sociable afternoon, and whole families came, with ages ranging from 7 to 70 cycling, and younger ones on tag-alongs or child seats. It felt great when I was near the back and looked up to see a line of cyclists as far as the eye could see! I thought I'd be very stiff the next day, but wasn't at all!

River Lambourn Fun Day

2007-05-01T17:11:00.000+01:00

Straight after the lunch at the Rugby Club we drove to the Almond Avenue recreation ground to attend the River Lambourn Fun Day, organised by the Kennet Valley Countryside Project.

The KVCP are gathering information from the public about the river, in the hope of obtaining a grant to restore and enhance the stretch that runs through Newbury. The river Lambourn is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because it is a very high quality chalk stream with a variety of flora and fauna. The Newbury stretch is the last mile or two of river before it joins the river Kennet, and it is the most vulnerable as it goes through residential and business areas. In addition to the threat to wildlife from people and development, the American Crayfish and mink have destroyed habitats of a number of species.

The Third Newbury Scouts helped out with refreshments and putting tents up and down on the day - which kept my sons busy. There were a number of activities available, and I had a go at fly fishing - on dry land! We also listened to a tale from the story teller.

Feltre vs Newbury Under 14 Rugby Match

2007-05-01T17:05:00.000+01:00

On Saturday morning Stuart and I went with Rod and Garry and Kath from the Newbury Twin Town Association, to watch the under 14 rugby match between the Newbury and Feltre teams at Newbury Rugby Club.

I have to confess this is the first rugby match I have ever watched, but it was consistently entertaining, and the teams were very evenly matched. The final score was 10 all; two tries to each team. Feltre scored a try in the final minutes, and the lad who took the kick narrowly missed, so it was extremely close. The Feltre team stayed with the families of Newbury team members, and spent Sunday visiting London. The Newbury team will make a return visit next year.

After the match I presented a shield to the Feltre coach, and we all had a hot meal.

10th Anniversary Reception

2007-05-01T16:56:00.000+01:00

Last Friday was the 10th anniversary celebration of the Town Council. Joyce organised the event, and we invited past staff and councillors, and many people from organisations involved with the council over its first ten years, from undertakers and community organisations to past Civic Awards winners and neighbourhood wardens.

The chamber was packed with familiar faces, some I hadn't seen for a while. People came from far and wide, and all seemed to enjoy catching up on old times.

I presented Councillor Barbara Peel with a unique 'Deputy Mayor' medal, as she is the only deputy in the last ten years not to go on to be Mayor. I also presented Councillors Peel, Peter Greenhalgh, Julian Swift-Hook and Vera Barnet, and Civic Manager Joyce Lewis and mace bearer Rod Thomason with new 10 year service medals. Barbara presented mine. Together with Councillor Clive Hillman, we are the only councillors and staff who have been with the Town Council since it began.

I am pictured with Brian Sylvester, the Town Crier, cutting the celebration cake.

Newbury Society

2007-05-01T16:45:00.000+01:00

The Newbury Society invited me to attend one of their regular evenings at the United Reform Church in Newbury last Thursday evening. David Saady gave an illustrated talk about the Kennet and Avon Canal - firstly about its interesting history of creation, delapidation and restoration, and then a series of pictures of a journey along the canal from Reading to Bristol - something I'd love to do one day.

Pictured from left, David Saady, me, Jeremy and Elke Holden-Bell.

History on Your Doorstep

2007-04-25T20:06:00.000+01:00

Last night Louis and I went to the West Berkshire Museum to visit the opening of the History on Your Doorstep exhibition. The exhibition is in a newly refurbished room upstairs, and explanatory panels explain how villages can set up their own historical societies, and individuals can research the history of their street or area.

I found some lovely aerial photographs of my house and surrounding area before housing estates were built, and a wonderful invitation from a Newbury Mayor Elect for lunch at the Mansion House in the 1790s. Louis and I then wandered around the rest of the museum, stopping to take in the video of the Civil War Battle of Naseby, and some of the old maps. There is always something of interest to see, and its good to see the old favourites too!

The Sampson Family Celebration Concert

2007-04-25T19:24:00.000+01:00

On Saturday night Stuart and I were guests of the Sampson family for their concert at the Methodist Church in Northbrook Street.

Geoffrey Sampson, his children Robert, Sally, Janet, Phillip and Helen and numerous grandchildren put on a concert in memory of their wife, mother and grandmother Mary Sampson, and to raise funds for the Berkshire Cancer Centre. All the family are musical - many perform in brass bands, and the guest stars of the concert were the excellent Test Valley Brass Youth Band, with members as young as eight. The other brass band were the aptly named Rusty Brass, made up of family members and friends of Helen Sampson, who came together just for the concert. One member of Rusty Brass was my cousin's husband who confessed in the interval that he hadn't had his trombone out of the case for 10 years (hence the name!). Despite this, they played well, and it is a testament to Mary and her family that they willingly made the effort.

Family members and other friends played piano and guitar solos, and read poems, but the most moving part was the 'Sound of Music' medley sung exclusively by the family. It was so touching to see the teenage grandchildren looking embarrassed, but singing their best for their grandmother.

Pictured are the trombonists from the TVB Youth Band dressed as nuns for their 'Sister Act' number 'I will Follow Him'.

Bowling the first wood of the season

2007-04-21T16:18:00.000+01:00

This afternoon I continued a time honoured tradition of Mayors of Newbury by bowling the first wood of the season on the bowling green in Victoria Park. I dont know how long this tradition has lasted, but the Bowls club is only two years younger than the position of the Mayor of Newbury, being 409 years old this year.

It is a lovely sunny day, and the park was full of families and young people picnicing and relaxing. The club members were welcoming, as ever, and clearly keen to have their first match of the year.

Healthy Fun Day at Greenham Community Centre

2007-04-21T16:09:00.000+01:00

This morning I was a guest at the fun day organised by past Mayor and health visitor Martha Vickers. I had a look around the stalls inside the community centre - interesting information on healthy eating, composting, cycling, walking, neighbourhood wardens etc. There were copious bowls of delicious fresh fruit available (yum) and a fascinating display showing the amount of salt, sugar and fat in familiar foods like snack bars and crisps. The stack of actual sugar cubes in a Mars Bar was shocking!

Outside I had a go at the drumming workshop, and watched a great cookery demonstration by a young professional chef - quick tomato soup and bruschetta - I had a taste of the soup too!

The day went on till 4pm - I hope plenty of the locals took the time to come along and enjoy the activities on offer - it was a well organised event that deserved a wide audience.

Mayor of Thatcham's Final Reception

2007-04-21T16:03:00.000+01:00

Due to prior engagements I have been unable to attend the final receptions for the Chair of West Berkshire Council, and the Mayor of Hungerford, so I was pleased to be able to go to Alexander's do - especially as it was at the wonderful Szechuan Restaurant in Thatcham.

It was a lovely evening - the staff at the restaurant were very friendly, there was a chinese dragon dance, and the food of course was delicious. Stuart and I sat on a table with Alex's predecessor Phil Dray and his wife, and the headteacher of the Kennet School Paul Dick and his wife, who were all very good company.

Alex made a lovely speech at the end of the evening - mentioning my prowess at paper plane making(!), but more importantly the large number of things Thatcham has achieved in the last 12 months - it certainly has been an exciting year for the town, and for Alex.

Civic Award Winners - Mr and Mrs Summers

2007-04-21T15:56:00.000+01:00

Last Thursday morning I met Les and Ann Summers - the winners of this year's Civic Award. They were unable to make it to the prize giving a few weeks ago, because they were visiting some of Les's 12 brothers and sisters in Cornwall!

Fellow judge David Danielli of Vodafone also came to meet them (on the right in the photo). they were such a lovely couple - Ann has such a fantastic attitude to their situation, and Les has a great sense of humour, which must help them both cope with his Alzheimers. Hopefully the publicity surrounding them winning the Civic Award will help raise the profile of this illness further.

Tea with Vernon and Karin Vidamour

2007-04-15T12:35:00.000+01:00

Yesterday afternoon I had tea in the Mayor's Parlour with Karin and Vernon Vidamour. They are the couple who won the auction for tea with the Mayor at the recent Spring Charity Fundraisers Ball. Neither are local, Vernon is from Blackpool and Karen is Swedish - but they both have a keen interest in history and wanted to find out about the tradition of the Mayor of Newbury. We looked at the lists of previous Mayors in the Council Chamber going back 410 years, and I explained about the change from Borough to Town Council status, and the current responsibilities of Newbury Town Council.

They even ate a slice of my home made cake (Stuart wouldn't risk it!)-then Karin told me she is a chef! My attendant Carol did a sterling job of keeping the refreshments coming, and two and a half hours seemed to disappear in no time!

Thoroughly Modern Millie

2007-04-15T12:20:00.000+01:00

On Friday night I took my mum along to see Newbury Operatic Society's new version of the popular musical at the Corn Exchange. Once again it was very professionally produced and directed. The leads were all very competant, especially Millie (Tonya Walton) who had a huge part to learn and was pitch and word perfect!

I particulary enjoyed the dancing scenes, as there was a bit of tap - and my old tap teacher -Jacquie Trumper had her first major part, as Mussy Van Hossmere which she performed excellently.

The show was performed six times over five days - all sell-outs. This is a massive commitment to all involved so it is great to see the NOS so well supported by the local community.

AGM of the Patient Panel

2007-04-15T12:09:00.000+01:00

Last Thursday night I was a guest at the first Patient Panel AGM. The patient panel is largely made up of representatives from patient participation groups from the GP surgeries of West Berkshire, but also representatives of voluntary sector organisations with an interest in primary healthcare.

The Patient Panel is an invaluable resource for the local Berkshire West NHS Primary Care Trust, because they are an ideal way to consult their consumers, and there have been a constant stream of consultations since it was set up in 2001. For the patients, the panel has helped resolved some inequalities in healthcare provision in the district over the years. A current issue is the long waiting times for blood testing at the Community Hospital, and the need for improved services within GP surgeries.

Judy MCulloch the Patient Public Involvement Manager takes much of the credit for having set up a useful and successful Patient Panel - the newly expanded NHS region includes Reading and Wokingham, who currently have no such facility, and are keen to develop one.

Devizes To Westminster Canoe Race

2007-04-07T10:12:00.000+01:00

This morning I was up bright and early to start the second leg of the junior four day Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race. dozens of youngsters started the race in Devizes yesterday - paddling 35 miles to Northcroft and camping overnight before setting off from 7am today. Today's leg of the race is 36 miles to Marlow - I started the 'K2s' - ie two man kayaks from 8am to 9am - the elite canoists leaving every two minutes.

It is an impressive endurance test - not only to they have to paddle for 125 miles over four days, but they also have to lift their canoes out of the water over 50 locks in the first half of the race. Fortunately for me it is a lovely day, and not too cold. Some of the veterans were also starting out this morning, at a more leisurely pace, and in Devizes the real professionals started from 7am to do the whole 125 miles non-stop. They will be paddling through the night to catch the tide at Teddington.

Michael Samuels - Mole Mapper

2007-04-07T10:00:00.000+01:00

I visited Mike Samuels stall in the Kennet Centre on Thursday. He has recently set up his own business photgraphing moles - this sounds odd, but he is a medical photographer, and this is all to do with cancer awareness - in particular melanomas. Individuals can arrange to have their backs or entire bodies photographed at regular intervals to look for changes in their moles, and help detect any potential skin cancer.

This service has been available in London for some time, but is not common in the rest of the UK. Mike was head of Medical Photography and Illustration at the Royal Free & UCL Medical School, until recently taking early retirement - and has 40 years experience. We are some years behind Australians in our awareness of skin cancer, and Mike is trying to raise the awareness here, as there are 8,000 cases annually in the UK. For more info: www.medicalphotographer.co.uk

Ian Waite at the Dance-In Shop

2007-04-07T09:54:00.000+01:00

On my way to my next engagement I noticed something going on in the Market Place - a huge stretch pink limo and a red carpet - it was the official opening of the new dance shop, and they had invited Strictly Come Dancing star Ian Waite. He was charming and agreed to pose for a photo, and even signed one for my mum!

PR for beating the bounds by bike

2007-04-07T09:41:00.000+01:00

On Thursday morning I popped into the Town Hall to pose for a publicity shot for upcoming 'Beating the bounds by bike' which is on Sunday 29th April from 2pm at the Starting Gate Pub (appropriately named!) By chance the new Junior Mayor, Lawrence Parker was visiting the Town Hall too, so he joined me for the picture.

By an amazing coincidence both Lawrence and I were at Banjo Cycles in Bartholomew Street the day before buying new bicycles - in my case it was for my sons.

Annual Town Meeting and Civic Award

2007-04-05T17:48:00.000+01:00

Monday night was the once a year council meeting that isn't really a council meeting - its for the council tax payers to ask questions and find out what the council does. In Newbury we have tied this into our Civic Award presentation for a number of years. In the past I have sat in the audience and been very moved hearing the citations of the nominees.

This year I stood at the front and congratulated them all as I handed out the certificates. - Fellow judges John Hampson and David Danielli also came to see the people we had all read about a few weeks ago, when attempting to sort out an overall winner! We had two runners up - I'm pictured here with Paul Harris of Mencap, and the other was Graham Smith who has been the driving force behind Newbury's new walking map. The overall winners were Ann and Les Summers - both stalwarts of the Alzheimers Association. Unfortunately they couldn't be at the award ceremony because they were away in Cornwall, but their nominator Chreanne Montgomery-Smith collected it on their behalf.

The annual town meeting then proceeded after refreshments - thanks to Graham's detailed powerpoint presentation, and the great displays around the chamber, this went very well - we had a pretty good turn out of people - though I did know almost all of them!

April Fool

2007-04-01T16:27:00.000+01:00

Last Tuesday I recorded an interview for Kick FM for their April Fool, with newsman Phil Spray (pictured). Of course I couldn't mention it till now. It has been going out on their news bulletins all morning that a unique key to a safe at the Town Hall was accidentally buried under the new Italian paving in the Market Place, it will have to be dug up to find it!

I don't know if anyone will be taken in by this, but I admire organisations for taking the trouble to keep these daft traditions going. I'm only glad Stuart woke up before me this morning and discovered the cling film over the toilet before I did!

Casino Royale

2007-04-01T16:22:00.000+01:00

After flying home on Friday afternoon, we had time for tea before going out again, - this time only to Thatcham! The Mayor of Thatcham held a charity screening of Casino Royale at the Frank Hutchins Memorial Hall - home to the new Thatcham Cine Club.

As past members of the long defunct Newbury Film Society, Stuart and I were very impressed with the quality of the picture and sound from their new, state of the art, digital equipment. Once the film began I really felt like I was at the cinema. Before the film there was a buffet and Martini cocktails, and afterwards a raffle of bond-like gadgets and other prizes, and auctioning of some Bond memorabilia.

Photo of Alex, Daniel and me by Norman Jones of the new Thatcham Photographic Club. www.norriesite.com

Mayor Making in Braunfels

2007-04-01T16:03:00.000+01:00

Stuart and I spent several days last week in Newbury's German twin town Braunfels. We flew out on Wednesday 28 and flew back on Friday 30 March. We stayed in a comfortable hotel in the centre of the old town, a few yards from the Italian cafe that serves delicious homemade ice cream!

We were treated to a lovely meal out on the Wednesday evening by members of Braunfel's twin town committee, and on Thursday we caught the bus to nearby Wetzlar and I bought some typical German Easter decorations in the new mall, then we looked around the photogenic old town.

In the evening we attended the event we had gone there for - the Mayor Making at the House of Guests. The sitting Mayor, Deiter Schmidt was retiring after 12 years in office, and following elections last October, the new Mayor (pictured shaking my hand) Wolfgang Keller has now officially taken office. Unlike the UK, the Mayors of all German towns and villages are directly elected, paid and full time, and serve for 6 years minimum. I wished Herr Keller well in his new role - he won the election convincingly, and seems to have a good following. Also unlike the UK, the Mayor Making consisted of three and a half hours of speeches, none of which I understood!

Jacqueline Cass's Queen's Guide Award

2007-04-01T15:49:00.000+01:00

I forgot to mention that I was a guest of Jacqueline Cass at the presentation of her Queen's Guide Award on Sunday 25th March, at the Kennet Leisure Centre in Thatcham.

I first met Jacqueline at another Mayoral engagement, the Spring Charity Fundraisers AGM - they kindly donated the money for the first two sports wheelchairs for the Thames Valley Vikings wheelchair basketball team. Jacqueline set this team up from scratch as her community activity for the Queen's Guide Award. Not only did she fundraise for the necessary wheelchairs, but she also had to train as a coach. I had a go in one of the wheelchairs on Sunday - they are incredibly manouvreable! I played 'stuck in the mud' with a group of children - only a few were disabled - and they definitely had the advantage over the likes of me. I know a number of the children who play in the Vikings team, as they are or were in the Speenhamland School Keevil unit. My mum was also invited as she has known Jacqueline for several years, as an assistant to the Rainbows unit in Thatcham where they both help the leader, Anne Eldred.

Jacqueline is an exceptional young woman, and we are extremely fortunate to have people like her in our midst - she has already made a very positive difference to so many lives.

School Council Conference

2007-03-27T19:51:00.000+01:00

I was pleased to be asked to speak to the first conference of primary school councils at West Berkshire Council Chamber this afternoon. The conference was the brainchild of Peter Dove, a teacher at Speenhamland School, and he thinks it may be the first of its kind in the country.

Representatives from 17 West Berkshire Primary schools came, together with some teachers, to talk about what they have been doing, and network. I spoke to them about being a Town Councillor, and the things we had in common - mainly that we were all volunteers because we want to make a difference and improve our town/schools. It was a shame I couldn't stay for the whole afternoon, but I spoke to Peter afterwards, and he is keen to do it again, but for a whole day because they ran out of time!

Berkshire Maestros Kaleidoscope Concert

2007-03-27T19:43:00.000+01:00

On Sunday evening I was a guest of the Berkshire Maestros again, - this time the concert was a showpiece for their instrumentalists, who had been working toward the performance all weekend.

There must have been several hundred youngsters involved, all secondary school age. We heard from the senior choir, the Clifton Wind Band, Newbury String Orchestra, 4+2+Friends and the concert band (pictured). Also performing were the Park House School Choir.

I recognised many faces in the audience - friends with children a similar age to mine. There were many proud parents there - justifiably so. Its a shame the hard work and dedication of these teenagers does not receive a wider audience - it would help to put the bad press teenagers often receive into context.

Living Paintings Trust concert at Douai Abbey

2007-03-27T19:32:00.000+01:00

After doing my rota duty on Saturday morning at Town Council Surgery (very cold!) I had a treat in the evening with a concert by the Reading Phoenix Choir at Douai Abbey near Woolhampton. The Abbey is a curious mix of traditional and modern architecture, creating a dramatic and airy space, ideally suited to the sound of the Phoenix Choir.

They were excellent - a large choir but rehearsed to perfection - their eyes glued to the conductor at all times. The programme was a mix of traditional and modern choral pieces, with a few organ solos, and some readings by Prunella Scales. The concert was in aid of the Living Paintings Trust, a charity based in Kingsclere, but serving over 6,500 blind and partially sighted adults and children all over the country. The picture shows my mum standing next to the display of some of the charities pictures and story books. All the illustrations are reproduced in relief, enabling the blind to feel the pictures, whilst a voice on cassette describes the scene.

Newbury Races

2007-03-27T19:24:00.000+01:00

Last Friday I was the guest of the Chairman of Newbury Racecourse at the Royal Box for lunch and an afternoon of racing. Sir David Sieff, the chairman, was a charming host, and Stuart and I enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch. We met several other members of the Board of the Racecourse, and they were all very welcoming and friendly.

Stuart and I had a go at betting - and won first and third place the first time - but lost out on our second go - our beginners luck didn't last long!

Launch of Sure Start

2007-03-27T19:20:00.000+01:00

On Wednesday 21 March I went along to the Foundation class at Speenhamland School for the official launch of Sure Start. There are six childcare providers involved in the first Sure Start children's centre in Newbury, and the foundation class of Speenhamland School is one of them, though the actual base of the centre will be at Victoria Park Nursery School.

For the launch all six locations released helium balloons simultaneously, following a countdown by Kick FM at Victoria Park. The children were so excited they couldn't help jumping up and down!

Full Council

2007-03-27T19:16:00.000+01:00

On Monday 19 March I chaired the last Full Council before the elections of May 3rd - in other words it was the last time the existing councillors will all be at the same meeting. I will chair the first meeting of the new council as Mayor, because it falls between the election and Mayor Making - I expect there will be many new faces in the Chamber.

Spring Charity Fundraisers Ball

2007-03-19T17:30:00.000Z

On Saturday night Stuart and I went to the Spring Charity Fundraisers Ball at Newbury Racecourse. There were about 330 people there, and the charity raised over £9,000, which is a wonderful amount, to buy specialist equipment for disabled children in West Berkshire.

My friends and I enjoyed dancing to the tribute band Abba Vision, and Joyce won one of the raffle prizes, a box of wine. I was so relieved that someone bid for me in the auction (tea with the Mayor in the Parlour) - I would have hidden in the ladies for the rest of the night if they hadn't!

Duke of Edinburgh's Award Presentation

2007-03-19T17:17:00.000Z

At the Kennet School on Friday night, over a hundred young people aged 14 to 25 were awarded their bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh's Awards in front of a packed audience.

Award winners came from all over West Berkshire, predominantly from schools such as Kennet, and Downe House, but also from youth groups such as the Adventure Dolphin Centre in Pangbourne. The awards were presented by the Vice Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire Lady Elizabeth Godsal. I hadn't anticipated the entertainment that was put on by six groups of students studying for their silver and gold awards. This ranged from a talented Downe House student performing a drum solo, to three lads from Hungerford doing a hilarious rendition of 'singing in the rain' (with very accomplished baton twirling!) and pupils from Padworth College performing traditional Chinese and Indian dances.

There weren't a great deal of winners from Newbury, (only three!) which reflects the fact that only one secondary in Newbury takes part. However, I did know one of them - Matthew Worth, a former Park House student, and ex-member of the Newbury Young Pupils Council. It was good to catch up with Matthew afterwards - he now lives in St Albans.

Judging of the Civic Award

2007-03-19T17:13:00.000Z

In advance of the Civic Award prizegiving at the Annual Town Meeting on Monday 2 April, I spent several hours on Friday trying to choose between some excellent candidates. To help me make this decision were Town Councillor Gabrielle McGarvey, David Danielli from Vodafone and John Hampson of Newbury Weekly News. As John said, it is very humbling to read the nominations.

Launch of Thatcham Vision

2007-03-15T19:23:00.000Z

On Tuesday evening I went along to the launch of the Thatcham Vision at the Thatcham Rugby Club. The Town Council funded two part time organisers to work with a voluntary steering group to create a Town Plan. Many of the villages in West Berkshire have prepared a village plan - basically a wish list of the residents following consultation. Thatcham has about 25,000 inhabitants, so it is no mean feat trying to ascertain the wishes of such a large number of people.

They had a response from about 10% of the households in the town, which is quite impressive, and have set up various working groups to concentrate on the many different aspects of the plan, from children and young people, senior citizens, the town centre, the environment to name but a few. The have about 100 action points that they now hope to persue. It is an enormous task, and I wish them well.

Charity Concert at Shaw Social Club

2007-03-15T19:11:00.000Z

On Sunday evening I was a guest of a charity concert held at Shaw Social Club for Cancer Research. This was the second concert I have attended by 14 year old impressario Josh Smith. Once again Josh has worked tirelessly to cajole and rehearse a large cast of singers, musicians and dancers - almost all teenagers. This time he had the added help of the Trinity School Choir (pictured) and some adult instrumentalists.

This was a great opportunity for local youth to take centre stage and show their family and friends the result of their hard work in rehersal. I haven't met another teenager who can make things happen the way Josh does. I believe he raised £400 last time and about £800 this time. His mum told me she won't let him organise another concert for a year, as he must concentrate on his school work now!

Soroptomists Lunch

2007-03-12T19:02:00.000Z

The Newbury Soroptomists invited me to their annual presidents lunch at the Regency Park Hotel in Thatcham - and asked me if I would talk to them about my year as Mayor.

I was a bit nervous about making my

first ever after-dinner speach, until I thought of using this blog as my inspiration! I simply went through it taking out pictures of a range of the type of engagements I have done, and put them on a powerpoint presentation. I always knew this blog would come in handy! I also circulated the scrapbook of press cuttings my mum has been keeping on my behalf.

I know some of the Soroptomists quite well now, as I have met them a number of times throughout my year. After the lunch they also presented a cheque for £2,000 for the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, their charity for the year.

Charity Quiz Night

2007-03-12T18:56:00.000Z

Saturday night was quiz night! I hosted a quiz at the Town Hall for my two charities, the Community Furniture Project and the Mayor's Benevolent Fund.

My friend Ian Osmond acted as quizmaster, ably assisted by his brother-in-law Colin. The chamber was packed with the maximum 13 teams - sadly we had to turn about 8 teams away because we were full. During the interval we had a fish and chip supper and a raffle. We also practised flying our paper aeroplanes (one of the rounds of the quiz was to make a plane and see whose could fly the furthest - I'm not really bragging, but all the years spent on origami paid off!). The Team from Borders bookshop won, and over £300 was raised.

Fair Trade Fair

2007-03-12T18:52:00.000Z

My colleague Councillor Gabrielle McGarvey helped organise a second Fair Trade event at the Town Hall on Saturday. There were stall selling all manner of produce from around the world, and opportunities to try Fair Trade food and drink.

When I called in at lunch time they had a

good number of visitors. I couldn't resist buying some peruvian woollen animals for Christmas Tree decorations!

Mock Trial Competition

2007-03-12T18:41:00.000Z

I spent Saturday morning at the Newbury magistrates' court watching the heats of the Mock Trials Competition. Pupils from four local secondary schools were taking part: Park House, Trinity, Kennet and Downs. All participants had to be aged 12 to 14, so could be from years 7,8 and 9.

This was my first time in a magistrates' court, - and the first time for many of the participants and their parents too I should imagine. The winners from this round go on to compete with winners from all over Berkshire at Reading, and the national finals are held in Nottingham in May. Each school provided lawyers, witnesses, ushers, clerks, and defendents, and took turns to prosecute and defend the same case. It was fascinating to watch the way the same evidence could appear so different each time - one defendant was found guilty, the other three innocent.

I had an additional reason to take an interest as my elder son Theo was on the Trinity team, taking the role of a magistrate. I am very impressed at the work the local magistrates put in to organise the competition and judge it on the day. The High Sherrif was also there for the day, and while the judges were deliberating he entertained all of us by describing his traditional role and costume. Downs School won the heat, and the runners up were Park House.

Berkshire Maestro's Junior Music Festival

2007-03-08T16:00:00.000Z

Last night at the Anvil in Basingstoke I was the guest of the Berkshire Maestro's for their third Junior Festival for their West Berkshire members. There were 350 children from primary schools across West Berks performing in the choir, and some also performed dance, drama and poetry.

Additionally there were musical numbers from the Benham Woodwind Ensemble, Broken Bones trombonists, the Bradfield Recorder Ensemble and Welford and Wickham C E Primary School's African drumming sequence. Its a shame all primary schools can't have a set of african drums! I'm pictured with Naomi Hinton, the compere for the evening, and David Marcou, the president of the Maestro's at the drinks reception after the concert.

Launch of Newbury Spring Festival

2007-03-08T15:46:00.000Z

Yesterday lunchtime was the launch of Newbury Spring Festival at the Corn Exchange Bar 1861. This year is the 29th since the festival began, and it is an increasingly popular and esteemed event, despite the recent proliferation of music festivals around the country.

We were treated to a recital by Robert Murray, the tenor, and Sally Pryce on harp. The harp was exquisite - a rare treat. The guest speaker was Sue MacGregor CBE, whose voice I still miss on the Today programme - she sounds exactly the same live.

Grenham WI and Tuesday Club

2007-03-06T20:08:00.000Z

This afternoon I gave a talk at the Town Hall to a number of ladies from the Tuesday Club that meets at Greenham Parish Church, and the Greenham WI. I showed them some pictures from my year in office, and gave them an idea of the sort of official engagements a Mayor is asked to do.

They also had a good look at the chain and pendant, the maces, and the Mayor's Parlour. They were interested to hear about Carnarvon Place, as one of their members is due to move in soon, and had been at the opening today too.

Opening of Carnarvon Place

2007-03-06T19:57:00.000Z

Today at 11.30am Carnarvon place was officially opened by Lord Carnarvon. This is the new Sovereign flagship apartment complex for over 55s, replacing a number of sheltered housing schemes in Newbury, such as Willow Close and St Donats Place.

The building of this complex was controversial, because it replaces the much loved old Newbury Hospital, and many disliked its size and appearance. However, as I suspected, it is much better on the inside! The photo shows the atrium - the three storey high, glass covered communal space at the centre of the complex, which definitely has a wow factor. Many of the future residents were there today, getting a preview of their new home, and most were pretty excited at the prospect. Most apartments have two bedrooms, and the rooms are fairly spacious, - the kitchens in particular are larger than those in most sheltered housing.

There are several beautifully appointed lounges, in addition to the atrium, and walkways and balconies. There are also fairly extensive grounds and plenty of car parking. I hope the residents will be happy there - it is handy for town, and should be a friendly place to live.

Presentation of the Howarth Clark Whitehill Shield

2007-03-04T18:08:00.000Z

Yesterday afternoon I went along with Carol to the West Berkshire Indoor Bowls Club to see some of the final match in the Howarth Clark Whitehill Shield competition. Over 30 Outdoor bowls clubs from Berkshire and Hampshire compete in this 'out of season' indoor tournament. It was all the more interesting for me because the finalists were Newbury and Thatcham!

I was especially pleased to be able to present the award to the Newbury team, who won convincingly after three and a half hours of playing. Well done lads!

Enborne School 125th anniversary celebrations

2007-03-04T18:00:00.000Z

On Friday afternoon I collected Louis from school then drove to Enborne C of E primary school to join in their 125th anniversary celebrations. As we arrived in the playground some of the pupils ran up and said 'hello Mayor!' - they remembered me from their visit to the Town Hall last summer. The children were all dressed as pupils would have been in 1882 when the school was built. They were all keen for me to take photos of them, and I took some great pictures, that I couldn't resist turning sepia - here is one of them.

Inside there were displays of photos from the school's past, and some log books and registers dating back from the second world war. I looked up the Junior Mayor Gemma Legg who attended the school six years ago - I'm pleased to see she had an excellent attendance record!

Fir Tree School Trout Hatchery

2007-03-02T14:36:00.000Z

This has to count as one of my more unusual engagements! Fir Tree primary school have teamed up with the Kennet Valley Countryside Project, and with funding from Newbury Town Council they are the proud owners of a trout hatchery!

This state of the art fish tank does the opposite of most fish tanks, in that it keeps the water cool not warm. Trout eggs were placed in the tank near the end of January, and the children have been feeding these baby trout with miniscule pinches of fish food every day since. Today the fish were about an inch long, but already look like trout! They will be taken to the nearby river Lambourn when they are about three months old - around the time of the Easter holidays.

After feeding the fish, I was given a guided tour of the school by the headteacher.

WBEBP Work Experience Awards

2007-03-02T14:16:00.000Z

The West Berkshire Education Business Partnership asked me to present the awards for the best work experience log books of 2006. The WBEBP co-ordinate over 1500 placements every year for year 10 students from all of West Berkshire's secondary schools.

Each school was asked to select the three best log books kept by these students, and these were then judged by a panel, and the winner and runner up were announced at the presentation evening last night at the Vodafone pavilion.

A number of the finalists spoke to the audience of parents and employers, using powerpoint to illustrate their work experience. As ever I was impressed with their confidence and composure, - especially a student of Mary Hare who gave a very amusing account of her week working at childrens nursery. There were also short talks from a couple of employers, including Keith Butcher - the popular caretaker of Speenhamland School - who I teased for wearing a suit, when he usually wears shorts in all weather!

Nightstop AGM

2007-03-02T13:53:00.000Z

On Tuesday evening I was a guest at Nightstops's AGM. Sadly this charity was being wound up after only existing in Newbury for a little over four years. Karen Anderson, the charity's secretary and founder gave an amusing presentation based on 'This is your life', which neatly explained how she went about founding the Newbury branch of this national organisation, after identifying a need through her work with the Community Council for Berkshire.

Pictured from left are Melissa Needham a Nightstop co-ordinator, Tony Vickers a volunteer host, Ian MacDonald former trustee, Karen Anderson secretary and me.

The charity exists to provide accomodation for homeless young people for a night or two until more formal provision can be found. Volunteers are trained before being added to the list of potential hosts.

On a positive note, the reason for the charity closing was due to a lack of clients rather than funding or volunteers. Although there are fewer young homeless locally, there is an increase in young people with more complex needs, who require professional help rather than that of volunteers.

St Bart's Art Competition

2007-03-02T13:42:00.000Z

On Tuesday afternoon I called in to Camp Hopsons to award the prize to the winning St Bart's student, following the competition among year seven pupils. Their pictures were exhibited at the entrance to Joseph's restaurant in Camp Hopson, and the public were asked to vote for their favourite.

The winner was Phoebe Dace, pictured with me and Jean Ince of Artifax picture framing shop in Bartholomew Street. Phoebe's still life of apples was very striking, and skillfully rendered in oil pastels, with an adventurous use of colour. Phoebe's prize was the framing of her picture courtesy of Artifax.

Thanks to the Newbury Weekly News for this photo.

Memorial Service for HMS Tigris

2007-02-26T16:52:00.000Z

In February 1943 the townspeople of Newbury raised the money to sponsor a submarine, HMS Tigris. Just a week or so later, the submarine was lost, and her entire crew of 60 were drowned.

The Newbury and District branch of the Royal Naval Association commemorate the loss every year on the Sunday nearest the 27 February, with a procession of standard bearers, veterans, association members, sea cadets and the Mayor from the Town Hall to St Nicolas's church for a service. Relatives of the crew are also invited to attend, though none of the crew came from Newbury. Despite the distance of time, it is still a moving service, as we pause to think of those men, in such cramped and damp conditions, living in the submarine. I learnt that submariners only had a one in three chance of surviving each mission - appalling odds.

Afterwards we retired to the RAFA club for buffet and refreshments.

Twin Town Association AGM

2007-02-26T16:45:00.000Z

On Saturday night Stuart and I were guests at the Twin Town AGM in the Town Hall. There was a good turn out - not suprising as there was a delicious pasta supper provided!

It was interesting to hear the reports of the various Twin Town secretaries. Almost all our twins (and nearly twins) have been actively exchanging visits with Newbury in the last twelve months. In that respect we must have one of the most active associations in the country! In 2006 there was a french exchange with Park House students, 25 Italian youngsters in July, 30 Hungarians also in July, the trip to Braunfels that I went on, a trip to Italy by the Newbury Choral Society and a contingent of adults from France, plus others that I have forgotten.

The association is looking forward to hosting 'Youth for Europe' with about 40 teenagers in August this year, and is supporting the Youth Council in organising this.

Opening Marks and Spencers 'Simply Food' at Moto Service Station

2007-02-24T15:47:00.000Z

On Thursday I went with Carol to the new M&S food franchise at the local Moto service station off the M4 by Chieveley. This is smaller version of the food department in the Newbury store, but sells a wide range of food, including the obvious sandwiches and salads, but also a wide selection of chilled ready meals and raw ingredients.

It will be a boon to motorists passing through, but also for locals who need to stock up late at night (open till 10pm) and after 4pm on Sundays, as the Sunday trading laws don't apply.

The staff are all new and keen, and Carol and I were well looked after by senior Moto staff, who provided us with lunch and a beautifully presented bouquet and chocolates.

Pancake Day Races

2007-02-24T15:40:00.000Z

Shrove Tuesday saw the traditional pancake races in Newbury Town Centre. This year they were held in the Market Place, which worked very well, and enabled the public to get a better view of the proceedings.

There were teams from many local companies and organisations, including The Volunteer Centre, The Racecourse, Gardner Leader Solicitors (including my husband) who came second over all, Charles Lucas Marshall, Kick FM, the Newbury Weekly News, Newbury Town Council (pictured left winning the Fancy Dress Prize!) and the winners for the second year running, Dreweatte Neate.

After the races we processed with children from the Rocking Horse Nursery to St Nic's church for the pancake tossing from the tower, which was more successful this year as it wasn't as windy! Then we finished off by eating a pancake lunch in the church hall. Well done to the Soroptomists for organising such a fun event, with proceeds to the Naomi House Hospice. Also well done to Document House for cooking all 400 pancakes!

Launch of Newbury Crafters

2007-02-19T17:18:00.000Z

On Saturday afternoon I was invited by Albert Moss to attend the first meeting of a new group, the Newbury Crafters.

They meet every third Saturday in the month at Speen Village Hall between 2 and 5pm. On Saturday there were people there from the Newbury knitting group and the guild of spinners weavers and dyers, but they hope to have a wide variety of crafts represented in coming weeks. I used to be a keen knitter, and it almost made me want to go home and dig out my knitting needles! Its a great idea for some company in what can otherwise be a solitary persuit. It also gives you encouragement and fresh ideas to try - one of the members was knitting a necklace from beads and wire.

KATS - Arabian Knights the Panto

2007-02-19T17:05:00.000Z

On Friday afternoon I took the boys along to see the latest production by the Kennet Amateur Theatrical Society. We met Joyce there and were escorted to our front row seats by committee member Nina Hopkinson.

All the traditional panto ingredients were there - a fantastic dame (Andy Pocock), a dastardly villain to boo and hiss (Mike Cole), a thigh slapping leading man who wasn't! (Siouxsie Ashmore) and a pantomime camel - as in the photo! Also plenty of 'he's behind you' and 'oh yes you did'.

The dancers from the West Berkshire Ballet School deserve a particular mention because they were step perfect, and the costumes throughout were also excellent. I could tell the whole of KATS hugely enjoyed themselves in this performance, it was great fun.

Vision Express Refurbishment

2007-02-11T14:13:00.000Z

Following on from the Coffee Morning I went along to officially re-open Vision Express in Northbrook Street. The store has been completely refurbished, and is very smart.

After cutting the ribbon the husband and wife who own the franchise gave me a tour of the premises, including the lab where lenses are cut to order within the hour.

Town Hall Coffee Morning

2007-02-11T14:05:00.000Z

yesterday between 10am and noon I held a charity coffee morning in the Town Hall for the Mayor's Benevolent Fund. There was a steady stream of customers, but it was a little quieter than the last one.

Councillor Vera Barnett helped run the tombola, but also brought along a quiz which proved very popular - made up of photos of Newbury taken from the Town Design Statement. It certainly was not easy to name all of the locations, and it provoked much discussion! My homemade cherry biscuits and tiffin went down well, and Theo and Louis were pleased with their tombola winnings. I am pictured with Rachel Haslam, Karen and Amelia Poulson.

3rd Newbury Scouts at the Town Hall

2007-02-11T13:59:00.000Z

On Thursday 8th February, the 3rd Newbury Scout group visited me at the Town Hall.

I talked to them about the Town Council, democracy and the role of Mayor - they asked many questions! Then they had a go at dressing up - if you look closely you'll see that its not me in the middle, but Alison, one of the scout leaders - the other two, Dave and Ian are the Macebearers.

After refreshments, I took them on a tour of some of the Town Hall, including the cellars, which are extensive. Joyce and Colin helped with the evening, and it was the first time Joyce had seen the cellars, despite working in the Town Hall for 15 years!

Cancer Care Trust AGM

2007-02-11T12:35:00.000Z

On Wednesday 7 February I attended the Newbury and District Cancer Care Trust AGM.

This local charity does much to support local people suffering from cancer - for example by organising lifts to hospital for treatment, organising alternative therapies such as aromatherapy and massage, hydrotherapy and aqua aerobics sessions for those recovering from surgery. They also hire out equipment and give grants to organisations such as 14-21 for counselling bereaved children, and individual grants to families in need as a result of cancer.

I was especially struck by the large number of local organisations who raise money for this charity - often without being approached for help - which shows how valued their work is in the community.

I was asked to present a leaving gift and flowers to Albert and Jean Harper, who had been volunteering as transport co-ordinators for many years, and were now retiring.

Full Council

2007-02-11T12:30:00.000Z

Unfortunately I missed an engagement for the first time due to ill health on Saturday 27 January. I was due to attend the Newbury Society's Cheese and Wine evening at St Nic's church hall, but I was suffering from an extremely heavy cold, and was very grateful to my Deputy, Adrian Edwards, for stepping in at short notice.

Fortunately I was just about well enough to chair the meeting of Full Council on Monday 29 January. This is one of the year's most important meetings because we set the budget and precept for the coming municipal year. Happily the budget was below the level of inflation, and the meeting ended by 9.30pm, so I didn't have a late night!

ITV Thames Valley Launch

2007-01-26T15:45:00.000Z

I have just returned from the Madejski stadium in Reading where I was a guest at their lunch to officially launch the new ITV Thames Valley news programme. At the end of last year the two smallest ITV regions merged to create the new region. Its good news for Newbury because for the first time we are in the centre of a region, rather than being on the edge, and we Newburians like to be at the centre of things!

We were in the Royal Suite with a fantastic view of the stadium through huge glass windows, and we had a super three course meal. There were some famous faces - Michael Grade, Boris Johnson, Martin Salter, John Madejski and Raymond Blanc. Pictured with me are the news presenters Mary Green and Wesley Smith who were charming. I sat next to Michael Jermey the national editor of ITV regional news, and Stuart sat between the ITV Thames Valley producer, and Sangeeta Bhabra, one of the reporters.

Reception for the Community Furniture Project

2007-01-26T15:34:00.000Z

On Wednesday evening I held a reception at the Town Hall for the staff, volunteers and my fellow trustees of the Community Furniture Project. About 50 people from the project came - including a good sized contingent from the Basingstoke branch. It was lovely to see everyone in one place at the same time - I hardly recognised some of the chaps in suits and a tie!

Additionally, a number of councillors came, Patrick Slater of Mencap and Angela Turton. There was a good, friendly atmosphere and Joyce had done us proud with the catering.

I made a short speech to thank the CFP staff and volunteers for all their hard work, and their help in the concert last October, then presented them with a nice big (in more than one sense of the word) cheque for £5,425, being their part of the proceeds of the concert and the Donnington Grove charity golf day last year. The picture shows CEO Kelvin Hughes accepting the cheque.

Remembering the Holocaust

2007-01-24T16:39:00.000Z

Yesterday at the Town Hall I attended a memorial event for the victims of the Holocaust and other genocides, organised by West Berkshire Council.

Representatives from the Jewish and Muslim religions, gypsies and the disabled spoke, the latter being the lesser known victims of the Holocaust. The main speaker was Malcolm Harper, who has lived and worked in dozens of countries, including Cambodia after the genocides there. Also present were pupils from St Bartholomew and Trinity Schools, several of whom read out thought provoking poetry by Karen Gershon, Ben Okri, the Rev Francois Murenzi and Martin Niemoller. The theme for the meeting was 'same but different'; our common humanity uniting rather than dividing us.

Soroptomists

2007-01-21T15:35:00.000Z

As a female Mayor of Newbury, I am automatically an honourary member of the local branch of the Soroptomists, and for the first time last Thursday I was able to go along to one of their bi-monthly meetings.

Since the Desmoulin Gallery closed in October, they have been without a home for their meetings, so I went along to the home of one of the members, and our host gave an illustrated talk about her career as a forensic scientist. With the popularity of many TV shows involving the skills of forensic scientists, and the famous trials such as that of OJ Simpson, this proved an interesting topic to hear about at first hand. I was impressed at the turn out of members - there were about 20 of us there - just as well it was a large living room!

Cine Club film premiere

2007-01-17T16:42:00.000Z

After a very quiet few weeks for me as Mayor, I was back in action last night at the second Cine Club film premiere at the Corn Exchange. This is an event the whole family had been looking forward to.

Five secondary schools from West Berkshire; Speenhamland Primary School and the Newbury Day Centre all entered their latest four minute movies, and this time there was a winner chosen by the audience. The picture shows my son Theo with his colleagues from the Trinity Cine Club, whose film was a music video to 'Monkey Wrench' by the Foo Fighters (hence the gorrilla!). The Corn Exchange was packed with members of the seven cine clubs, their mentors and family and friends, and there was a charged atmosphere! Christina Pepper of the Corn Exchange presented the evening, and there were three professional judges who awarded clapperboards for the best script (Speenhamland), best acting (Newbury Day Centre), Best music ( Kennet School) and best editing (Theale Green). All groups had visibly improved on technique since last time - Mary Hare's was notable because it showcased the school band 'the Deafness'.

I have to confess my favourite was Theale Green (sorry Theo!) who did a spoof martial arts movie called Bully This (Stuart tells me it was largely based on Kill Bill, but I've never seen it), complete with bad dubbing and over the top sound effects - very funny. I'm pleased to say it won the audience vote and will be going into the National Cine Club competition - Good Luck Theale Green!

Ringing in the New Year

2007-01-01T15:42:00.000Z

Last night I went along to the bell tower at St Nic's to watch the bellringers ring in the New Year. It is a long standing tradition for the Mayor of Newbury to do this. All four of us went along. The bell ringers room in the tower has quite a cosy feel to it. There are 10 bells, and the room is located close to the mechanism for the church tower clock.

A few minute before midnight, the Rev David Stone said a couple of prayers for the coming year, and there was a moment of silence, during which we could hear the loud ticking of the clock, reverberating through the walls like a heartbeat - an appropriate sensation for contemplation of time passing.

The ringers took their positions and after the countdown to midnight, one rang out 12 times and the other nine joined in. We wished each other happy New Year and then climbed the stone spiral staircase to the tower roof with the sound of bells loud in our ears. Stepping out into a wild windy night we peered over the crenelations to see fireworks going off in all directions, lighting up the sky.

New Year News

2006-12-30T20:39:00.000Z

I know its not New Year quite yet, but I've just read in the Times that Angela Spellman has been awarded an MBE. I am absolutely delighted - it couldn't go to a more deserving person.

Angela has been organising the Mayor's Drive and Tea Party for decades, and is such an enthusiastic and bubbly person. She is integral to the smooth running and family atmosphere at Fair Close Day Centre, and I'm sure everyone there will be so pleased that her years of voluntary work have been rewarded in this way.

Another great bit of news for Newbury was the record breaking solo South Pole treck by local woman Hannah McKeand who has just completed her 690 mile expedition in just 39 days. Congratulations Hannah!

More Carol Singing at the Community Hospital

2006-12-30T20:30:00.000Z

Yes, I was back at the hospital again on Christmas Day, with Stuart and his parents, and Alex, the Mayor of Thatcham, to sing around the wards with the Salvation Army band.

Father Christmas was also there to hand out gift bags to every patient. They looked very jolly with their Santa hats on. As many patients as possible got out of bed, to join in with Christmas lunch in the lounge.

It is very good of the local Salvation Army to give up some time on Christmas morning to do this every year.

Carol Singing at the Community Hospital

2006-12-24T15:44:00.000Z

The matron and staff of the hospital went around the wards carol singing. Alex, the Mayor of Thatcham, Richard Benyon MP and I did a bit of singing, but then went into the wards to meet the patients.

It was the first time I had been in the wards at the hospital, and I was very impressed by their cleanliness and feeling of spaciousness. The new hospital is well designed for those working and staying in it, but looks less impressive from outside - but that is often the way with modern buildings.

There are a large proportion of side rooms, and almost all the patients are elderly. Most impressive is the friendly feel of the place - the Matron and staff are very caring and kind.

I will be back there on Christmas Day for more carols with the Salvation Army.

Volunteer Centre West Berkshire Christmas Drinks

2006-12-24T15:37:00.000Z

Each year the Volunteer Centre has its Christmas Drinks do at the Town Hall and invites the Mayor. Garry Poulson, Director of the Centre takes the opportunity to thank the volunteers for their work. Chair of West Berkshire Council, Brian Bedwell, presented a cheque for the VCWB(his chosen charity for the year) from his charity golf day, and Newbury Building Society also presented a cheque.

The drinks do was Thursday lunch time, and Carol and I then drove to the Community Hospital for the next engagement.

Best Dressed Window presentation

2006-12-24T15:19:00.000Z

On Wednesday afternoon I met up with Brian Burgess, the Newbury Retail Association Chairman to present the prizes for the best dressed window competition winner.

The outright winner was Panousha Baguettes in The Arcade - a lovely display by the owner Tracey Gerayesh of flowerpots and robins with Father Christmas. One of the runner ups was also in The Arcade - Kuva, which has only been open for five weeks, and sells photos of local scenes as calenders, jigsaws, mousemats etc, together with other interesting things. The other runner up was Barbar Ella Hairdressers of Cheap Street, who had created a Christmas Scene in their shop window with reindeer and fairy lights twinkling in the snow. I hope more shops make an effort next Christmas - everyone can enjoy a good shop window.

Full Council

2006-12-20T11:22:00.000Z

Monday night I chaired the full council meeting. It was a short meeting, - I gave out some grant cheques at the beginning, and we discussed the draft conservation area proposal for St Barts, praising the work of Councillor Gina Houghton and her historic buildings working group. After the official business Councillor Mike Rodger announced his resignation from the Council, and said he was sad to go. He has done so much in his nine years on the council, being Leader for three years and Mayor twice. Mike was presented with a leaving gift and council staff joined us for a farewell drink.

Newbury College Graduation Ceremony

2006-12-20T10:49:00.000Z

On Monday afternoon I went along to the graduation ceremony at Newbury College. The students had qualified in a number of professional subjects, including accountancy, business and computing, mechanical engineering and marketing.

Sir Terence Conran was the special guest who presented the certificates and spoke afterwards, but opened it up to the floor for questions, which he enjoyed answering. Despite back pain and a cold, Sir Terence was in good humour, and I could tell that the students appreciated his presence.

Civic Carol Service

2006-12-20T10:37:00.000Z

Sunday evening was the civic carol service, held for the first time at Newbury Methodist Church, home ground for my minister Rev Andy Warren.

We gathered at the Town Hall before processing down Northbrook Street behind the mace bearers. It was a fair bit further to process than usual (to St Nics) but felt festive with all the Christmas Lights twinkling above us.

There were candles lighting the path to the church and inside more candles suspended in lanterns from the balcony all around. In between carols and pieces sung by the choir we were entertained by members of the church in an updated version of a Christmas Carol.

Afterwards we had refreshments in the church hall where I handed out the traditional Christmas Card and money to the West Gift Christ's Hospital scholars who were invited along. There were three new students this year from Newbury, one of whom I knew when he was a toddler, so it was good to see how well had done to get a West Gift scholarship.

CFP Christmas Party

2006-12-17T15:01:00.000Z

Although not a Mayoral engagement, I just wanted to mention that I went to this Christmas Party at the Slater Centre on Friday night, just to round off my busy day. I arrived exhausted, but had such a good time, I stayed till midnight.

Its the only place I know where you can dance uninhibited to cheesy pop tunes (e.g. 99 Red Balloons and Dancing in the Moonlight), and no one bats an eye! Great atmosphere - well done Christine.

Opening Sahill Indian Restaurant

2006-12-17T14:42:00.000Z

Stuart and I were invited to the official opening of Newbury's newest indian restaurant, Sahill in Station Approach.

The building was previously offices and a sandwich bar, so the restaurant is a transformation. As it is slightly off the beaten track, it is a good place to go for a quieter meal, where you can have a proper conversation! The food was delicious - I think we sampled quite a bit of the menu. Stuart (who loves indian food) thought the chicken Jalfrezi and the naan bread were the best he had ever tasted! We arrived at 6pm, and waited a while for Richard Benyon, the other special guest to arrive, but as the NWN photographer had to leave I cut the ribbon before Richard arrived. Richard and his secretary Michele quickly ate their starters and caught up with us for the main course. We even had a delicious fruit salad dessert.

The restaurant is run by two brothers from a family of five who have had a restaurant in Basingstoke for 20 years, and will shortly be expanding their empire into Peterborough too. I wish them well, in what is a very competitive market.

Winchcombe School 2

2006-12-17T14:32:00.000Z

I ran to the Town Hall only to find 40 children and teachers queuing patiently outside - they were five minutes early though! I dashed upstairs and robed up for the second installment of my education project.

They really enjoyed reading the names of past Mayors on the chamber walls, and I pointed out my favourite - Jere Bunny!

They were also impressed at being able to look out of the chamber windows to the Christmas Tree, which is nearly as tall as the Town Hall.

Judging the Shop Window Competition

2006-12-17T14:27:00.000Z

At 11.30 I met Town Centre Manager Mitch Roberts, and Newbury Retail Association Chairman Brian Burgess to walk around the town and judge the best Christmas shop windows.

Unfortunately I forgot to take my camera for this, but will photograph the winner when we present the prize next Wednesday. It was disappointing that few shops had made more than a cursory attempt to dress their windows for Christmas; - we were looking for original, preferably hand made decorations, or a theme. The winning window was excellent, as you will see soon....

Mitch was used to a more leisurely pace for the judging, but I had to be back at the Town Hall for the second set of Winchcombe pupils by 12.45pm!

Winchcombe School 1

2006-12-17T14:16:00.000Z

Friday was one of my busiest days. At 10.30am 40 junior children from Winchcombe School came to visit me in the Town Hall. They had already done a number of activities from my Education Project, so knew some of the answers to my questions during my presentation.

They enjoyed looking at my Mayoral Chain and pendant, and having a close up look at the maces. Dressing up as Macebearers and councillors was popular as ever, and they finished up with squash and biscuits before walking back to their school.

West Berks Community Hospital Carol Service

2006-12-15T17:10:00.000Z

The league of Friends of West Berkshire Community Hospital hold a Carol Service every year to raise funds. The Service was held at St Nicolas' church, with the church choir and the Rev David Cook, but also the two hospital chaplains, Bernard Dagnall and John Stannard.

I was asked to read a lesson, which I was happy to do. The service was traditional, and it was another opportunity to sing popular carols. There were refreshments in the church hall afterwards

Fair Close Christmas Lunch

2006-12-15T17:01:00.000Z

Yesterday I was the guest at both sittings for the Fair Close Christmas lunch. I sat at the top table and chatted to a couple of the trustees and discovered that Fair Close is an independant charity, set up by local people about 35 years ago. That probably explains why it is so popular and well thought of - they have a large canteen kitchen that feeds several hundred people every lunch time both at the centre and as meals on wheels. Some of those involved in running the centre have been there since it began, it commands great loyalty from its staff and volunteers, and is a very friendly place.

This was my opportunity to taste the cooking I had heard so much about - a traditional Christmas dinner, which tasted home cooked, I even ate the Christmas pud, which is a first for me!

I managed to chat with many of the several hundred people there, after the food was eaten. They all had a jolly time - I hope my generation is as easy going when they reach that age!

'Rent' at Trinity

2006-12-15T16:54:00.000Z

Also on Wednesday I was a guest at the new Trinity production, 'Rent'. Not a play I was familiar with - a musical based on La Boheme, but set in modern day New York. Its not every school play that you get to see the Head Girl pole dancing! Amy Graham played the up to date Mimi, the tragic heroin addict. There were some very strong performances, and the whole play was performed with professionalism and enthusiasm by the cast.

There were adult themes and situations which were handled extremely well, and at times it was easy to forget I was watching a school play.

Wednesday Club Christmas Party

2006-12-15T16:50:00.000Z

On Wednesday afternoon I was the guest at the Wednesday club (!) Christmas Party at Fairclose. This club is run by the local branch of the Red Cross. The hall was packed with elderly people in their paper hats, and I chatted to many of them while they had their tea.

The entertainment was from the Park House School Choir, who sang a number of Christmas songs I hadn't heard before, and one talented lad called Jack played some Scott Joplin and Mozart on the piano - all from memory, which delighted his public!

Everyone was very welcoming, and had a good time.

Champions of Enterprise

2006-12-15T16:40:00.000Z

On Tuesday I was a judge for the final of the Champions of Enterprise. This competition for year 12 pupils was organised by the West Berkshire Education Business Partnership, sponsored by Newbury Building Society and held at the Berkshire Stand at Newbury Racecourse.

Judging with me were Sarah Shillito from Vodafone, Adrian Martin from the Newbury Weekly News and Geoff Knappett from Newbury Building Society. This was a very tough job because there were six teams, from St Barts, Park House, The Downs, John O'Gaunt and Mary Hare, Theale Green, and Willink. Each team had a ten minute slot to present their product, the marketing campaign and research, the financial and business plans. The also produced reams of detailed information, pictures, pie charts etc, that it was hard to do justice to. Many hours had been spent, and they must have learnt a huge amount in the process.

My favourite product was the 'Ballzooker' for firing foam balls at people wearing velcro suits, but the winner was the 'Educastle' and the team from Willink, as their presentation and business plan was the most comprehensive and impressive.

Greenham Common Remembrance

2006-12-12T16:10:00.000Z

In 1944 at noon on 12th December two American gliders full of troops collided at Greenham Common - a tragic wartime accident, - and 33 American airmen lost their lives. Now every year on 12.12.12 the local Royal British Legion, the Mayor of Newbury, and usually some American airmen and relatives gather to pay their respects. This year there were not any relatives, but an American Colonel and about six other airmen had come especially. We sang a hymn, said some prayers and observed a silence before laying wreaths.

Following on from that, we walked along to what had been called Fifth Street, to unveil a new street name 'Jones Drive' after one of the airmen who died. Then we went inside to have refreshments.

Crimestoppers launch

2006-12-12T15:59:00.000Z

This morning at Vodafone I attended the launch of a Crimestoppers initiative to tackle thefts from motor vehicles over Christmas and New Year. The poster and leaflet campaign will cover the whole of West Berkshire, and had good press coverage - it should be on the local ITV news this evening.

The highlight was the re-enactment of a vehicle break in. First they asked Paddy Hopkirk, retired racing driver, to attempt to smash a car window with a metal bar. It made no impact, but then we were shown how easy it is to smash a car window by the expert from 'Thatcham'. It is scary how quick and quiet it was as the glass shattered.

Trinity Celebrating Excellence Evening

2006-12-12T15:56:00.000Z

Following on from the CLC opening, was the prizegiving for students in years 11,12 and 13 (or fifth and sixth form if you are as old as me!).

Cups and awards were given out by the headteacher Deborah Forster to pupils for excellence in all subjects and outstanding achievements/progress/effort and personal excellence. It was especially meaningful when a number of students were cheered on by their peers when collecting awards - showing mutual support and respect.

I was pleased to see Josh Smith had been awarded the PTA community spirit award, following the organising of the Heart Foundation concert he organised recently - unfortunately he wasn't there to receive it.

Trinity - opening of new Community Learning Centre

2006-12-12T15:44:00.000Z

Last night I attended the official opening of the new Community Learning Centre at Trinity secondary school. Vodafone Foundation had given a grant to the school to decorate and equip the room with computers so it can be used by the school and the local community, especially for extended learning.

Timespanners Winter Concert

2006-12-12T15:31:00.000Z

On Sunday evening I was back at the Town Hall to see the Timespanners Winter Concert. The Timespanners are a touring percussion band, comprised mainly of disabled adults. I have seen them perform many times, but this concert was something different - they were accompanying poetry and digital images on the large screens before us. It was unique and quite avant garde. There were guest performers too - including a woman who played huge crystal bowls to clear our chakras!

Pictured are a group from the Morpheas Theatre who performed a short dramatic piece about the seasons.

Contact the Elderly Christmas Party

2006-12-12T15:16:00.000Z

On a cold, wet Sunday afternoon Carol and I attended the Contact the Elderly Christmas Party at the United Reform Church Hall. Contact the Elderly is a national organisation but is co-ordinated at a very local level. A group of about 12 elderly people, who would otherwise not get out and about, are collected from home by volunteer drivers and taken to the home of a volunteer hostess, who then gives them tea, and they play bingo etc before being driven home again. The meetings are monthly, and a great way of making friends. There are three such groups in the area, and they came together for the Christmas Party.

We were entertained by the Good Companions who gave us a glimpse of their extensive repertoire of music hall songs, and a lovely rendition of the old Benny Hill song about the milkman! After a delicious tea of home made sandwiches, nibbles and cakes, we were also entertained by a group from the Liberty Ballroom at Greenham who danced to some wartime favourites.

MS Christmas Party

2006-12-12T14:55:00.000Z

On Saturday afternoon I was the guest of the Newbury and District Mulitple Sclerosis Society for their Christmas Party. I had been to this as Deputy Mayor, and was looking forward to it. I saw many familiar faces - members and committee members; they were very welcoming.

For the second year it was held in Stockcross Village Hall, which is a super venue - very cosy with a good stage. The entertainment was from the Newbury Nomads who sang beautifully and we all joined in with Christmas Carols (I'm word perfect on most of them now!). Father Christmas came (he is a busy man!) and I even won a raffle prize. I am pictured with Doreen on the left and Tracy on the right.

Watership Brass Coffee Morning

2006-12-12T14:53:00.000Z

Saturday morning at the Town Hall was the Watership Brass coffee morning. It was a fine day, and hundreds of people were out Christmas shopping, so it was not too hard to tempt them inside for a welcome tea or coffee with cake. Watership Brass Band were assembled in the Council Chamber, and played many tunes, including Christmas carols. A small ensemble also played outside the Town Hall for part of the morning.

Aldermaston York Nativity Play

2006-12-09T13:52:00.000Z

Last night Mum and I were guests at the Aldermaston York Nativity play. Each year the play is performed over a number of nights at the parish church of St Mary the Virgin, by a cast from Aldermaston and the surrounding area. The play is based on the original texts of the six plays of the medieval York cycle, and the costumes are medieval in style.

The setting of the parish church could not be more appropriate, as it is a twelfth century building and full of atmosphere and beautiful murals. The language of the play is forteenth centuary poetry, and cannot be easy to learn, but the actors are all word perfect, which may have something to do with the fact that they have done this before - in the case of the third shepherd Leslie Woodley, 43 times before, because this is his 44th year in the job! Local legend, Pat Eastop MBE, had the idea of putting on this nativity play in 1957, and she has produced and directed it ever since. She is the only original member of the group, but the magical thing is the continuity - only four Mary's have taken part in 50 years, and many of the cast have parents, partners, children, nephews and nieces that have been involved at some time in those years.

I was thrilled to attend as Mayor in the 50th year of this wonderful tradition, and will be thinking of them all tomorrow when cast members past and present re-unite for a celebratory party. Pictured is Pat with two of the kings and one of the maids.

Mayors Benevolent Fund Distribution Panel meeting

2006-12-08T16:55:00.000Z

Yesterday I sat down with the Mayor's Benevolent Fund distribution panel, to go through the application forms received from individuals within the parish. This is the first time I've done this, but I was ably guided by the regulars, who prefer to remain anonymous. It took us several hours to go through the huge pile of applications, and it was quite moving at times reading the forms where people mention their personal circumstances. It certainly made me feel more grateful for the things I take for granted. Many people in Newbury exist on the minimum state handouts, though we are always considered to be a very prosperous town.

Most applicants were disabled; single parent families, or pensioners. It is good to be able to give them small sums of money at Christmas time, though I know the amounts given (£15-£30) are small, I'm sure they are put to good use. I'm grateful to the local companies who donated this year - the Mayor's Benevolent Fund is a very personal way to enable local families to have a more enjoyable Christmas.