Well the snow certainly curtailed my activities this past week, with a number of engagements cancelled or postponed.  But just before it did fall, we had a fantastic day in the High Street to celebrate the Chinese New Year (Year of the Dog).  With firecrackers, dancing dragon and gymnasts, the people that stopped to watch were entertained to a magnificent display.  Once inside the Guildhall, a musician, martial arts team and a magician continued to treat their audience to some excellent performances.  All this was arranged by Mr Frankie Tsang and Mr Eric Brown of the Worcestershire Chinese Association, with a view to promoting Chinese culture in the community.

Last Sunday evening Alison and I were invited to St Clement’s Church where we witnessed the Licensing and Installation of Rev. Sarah Cottrill to the Parish Church.  This was a lovely ceremony presided over by the Bishop of Dudley, who carried out the formalities of the occasion.

On Tuesday we were again at the Guildhall to present awards to three children from local schools.  They had designed posters encouraging people to buy Fairtrade items to ensure suppliers receive fair prices for their products.   The winner received a framed copy of her poster and all three were given Fairtrade chocolate and bananas for their efforts by Mr Anthony Wood, Chair of the Worcester Fairtrade Justice Network.

Gheluvelt Park was our next destination on Thursday morning.  I was invited to lay the very first brick of the new Sons of Rest building which will cater for all those using the park and Splashpad in the warmer months ahead.  After the brick was laid between somewhat violent showers, we went to the Parlour where we entertained three representatives of the Worcester Muslim Welfare Association.  Each had played a great part in the development of Unity House Community Centre, which was providing after school activities for young children but intends to promote interfaith pursuits for everyone.

Finally on Thursday I went to Perry Wood Primary School where I met with the Environmental Wardens from the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust.  From there we went with teachers and a number of children towards Perry Wood Nature Reserve where we supervised and assisted them in collecting bags of litter.  This included the front grille from a car complete with number plate and hub cap, cans, bottles wrappers and plastic cups.  Untidy lot!!

I had ‘psyched’ myself up for a Skydive to raise funds for the mayoral charities on Wednesday.  Unfortunately it was not to be, as the instructors had to cancel the jump due to bad weather in Wiltshire, where it was taking place.  The good news is that a new date is to be arranged as soon as possible – so I am still on tenterhooks!  I’d like to thank everyone who has sponsored me so far in this endeavour.