Mayor of Worcester Blog

I do believe that the Mayor’s role is all about inclusiveness: not forgetting smaller groups in society who appreciate support but are not always in the public eye.  Therefore it was a pleasure to visit the Ex-Servicemen’s Club in Barbourne last Friday to help celebrate the work of those in the community prepared to assist previous members of our Armed Forces.  If you were in any of the services and would like to make contact, then you would be made most welcome there.

On Saturday I was pleased to host the Holocaust Memorial Day at the Guildhall.  Organised by Rev. Doug Chaplin and ably assisted by James Atkinson, the morning was spent listening to readings from students of Bishop Perowne School and a remarkable account from Barbara Winton of the work of her father, Sir Nicholas Winton, who became known as the English ‘Schindler’.  Through his work many children were rescued from Czechoslovakia on the eve of the Second World War.  It was not only a moving ceremony but also informative, acting as a reminder of what can happen if people do not speak out against tyranny.

During the week the Guildhall was also used by members of Sight Concern to hold their AGM and supporters meeting.  We heard from a young lady who is working hard to overcome her sight loss with the help of Sight Concern.  Their services are allowing her to become more engaged within the community.  After this came an explanation on how technology is supporting those who have little or no vision – such as computer applications which not only give verbal information but can also control electrical devices around the home.  Such advances are invaluable for many with disabilities.

On Friday afternoon Alison and I hosted volunteers from the Citizens Advice Bureau at the Guildhall.  This was a large group who provide a great deal of free confidential information to the public on financial, legal, consumer and other issues.

Now returning to the subject of inclusiveness: during the evening we visited the Yelland Theatre at the Worcester University to hear Lord Christopher Holmes (a superb Paralympian) speak on that very subject.  As a teenager Lord Holmes lost his sight practically overnight.

 

He had been a keen swimmer but after this tragic event in his life, he chose to overcome the boundaries and take on those that would exclude people with disabilities.  As well as winning Gold medals in Spain he took on a huge role in organising the 2012 Paralympics in London.  There really is not enough room in this column for me to describe how his involvement made the Games the success they were.  Suffice to say it has made me think of how we as a council must continually address the needs of all.

 

As we move towards the end of January, my diary is starting to fill up for this new year!

This week I was able to catch up with representatives from my chosen charities to talk over the up and coming events which I hope will raise money for their causes.

There were a number to talk about: a concert brass evening, a medical lecture, a quiz night and my Charity Dinner – the latter will be held on 23 March at the Guildhall.  Entertainment for the evening will be provided by Starbuck Theatre Company from Birmingham, singing songs from the West End and Broadway Musicals.  An auction and raffle will be held on the evening and tickets are available for £30 each.  If you would like to book tickets or need further information, please email civicoffice@worcester.gov.uk

Wednesday afternoon was really enlightening; we entertained four Year 7 children from Worcester’s New College.  One young lady was partially sighted, and the three boys had no vision.  They wanted to visit the Parlour to discover more about the role of the mayor and councillors, as well as to learn about the history of Worcester and Guildhall in particular.

The children held various artefacts in the Parlour, discovering their shape and texture.  On an embossed wall carving they could recognise the castle and three pears that symbolise Worcester.  I think the children particularly enjoyed being able to wear the Mayor’s robes and chain.

Continuing with my focus on volunteering, Alison and I also entertained the ladies of the Worcester Floral Arrangement Society in the Parlour.  They give their time generously to arrange flowers for the Cathedral and sometimes the Guildhall too.  Additionally they hold ‘Junior’ mornings (third Saturday of every month at Hallow Community Hall) where young people are encouraged to learn this art.

And finally, hoping you won’t get bored with hearing about this, I’m on a countdown of approximately six weeks until my Tandem Skydive.  No butterflies setting in yet – other than to say now it’s getting nearer, the notion of being pushed out of the aircraft is fast moving from concept to reality!  Iff you would care to sponsor this ridiculous behaviour then please go to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SteveMackay  It really is appreciated –Thank you.

 

 

Last Saturday I enjoyed a pleasant evening in Bewdley.  The Mayor there, Mrs Anna Coleman, has a Russian heritage and so in an effort to raise funds for her chosen charities, arranged a Russian Christmas Celebration evening for guests.  All the food was prepared by her and her son, while the entertainment was made up of everyday games played in Russian homes. A very good idea, with the proceeds going to help local people.

Reverend Doug Chaplin and I met this week to discuss Worcester’s Holocaust Memorial Day Service, which will be held at the Guildhall at 10.30am on Saturday 27 January.  Please come along and join us for this moving ceremony – people all over the world will be attending similar events in their local community.

Later in the week Alison and I were invited to attend the Blessed Edward Oldcorne School Career Fair.  This event has run for the last three years and judging by the interest shown by the students, it was a real success.

The emphasis was on the digital market with not only Oxford University, local colleges and local industries aiming to recruit individuals, but also the armed forces.  Speaking with both representatives and the students themselves, it is apparent that not only is it important to have jobs available but also for information about them to be easily accessible, to help students make the best career choices.

From now until the end of my mayoral year in May I will be focusing on raising more funds for my chosen charities: Headway, Onside Advocacy and Victim Support.  There will be a Mayor’s Charity Dinner featuring Broadway Music from Starbuck Theatre Group on 23 March; a Concert Brass evening on 13 April and a Medical Lecture on 17 April.

If you would like to come to any of these you would be most welcome! Additionally I’m doing a Charity Skydive on 7 March – just trying to raise a few extra pounds and probably lose a few (in weight) through fear. I am still seeking more sponsors so if you did feel able to make a donation, please go to uk.virginmoneygiving.com and search for Steve Mackay, where any amount may be pledged. Thank you.