After so many years, this Saturday saw the Carnival finally come back to Worcester.  I had the pleasure of not only opening it but of crowning both the Carnival Queen and Princess.  The parade started later in the day, but before this they visited the Childrens’ Wards at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital and then Acorns, to meet children who are unable to visit the City centre.  All credit to the organisers of this great Worcester event; I hope it goes from strength to strength.

On Sunday we went to Crich in Derbyshire.  We attended a ceremony at a monument which commemorates members of the Sherwood Foresters, Worcestershire and Mercian Regiments who have lost their lives in conflicts around the world.  I laid a wreath at the site on behalf of the citizens of Worcester.

The Seniors teams of Worcester Golf and Country Club took part in a match on Monday morning to raise money for Worcester Community Trust which, while engaged in numerous activities, is seeking to combat loneliness amongst elderly residents in the city.  Over £2,000 was raised through generous donations, a raffle and an auction.

On Tuesday afternoon Alison and I entertained two groups of exchange students from China and Taiwan. Although their countries have their own magnificent histories, they were in awe of the artefacts in the Guildhall – particularly the Sword, silverware and porcelain.  And judging by the number of snaps they took, I think I’m going to be quite famous in both countries!

It may not be well known, but our University also holds graduation days for primary school children.  The youngsters take part in extra-curricular activities provided by the University and dependent upon the number of hours they accumulate, receive gold, silver or bronze certificates.  The hundred children from a variety of schools that attended the ceremony on Wednesday thoroughly enjoyed the event, having ‘gowned’ for the occasion.

On Thursday we attended another awards ceremony, this time at the Cathedral, for those in their last term at Kings School.  It was apparent that many were upset at leaving, but were looking forward to what the next chapter of their lives had in stall for them.  And finally that evening saw us at the Hive, which was celebrating its fifth year since opening.  From what started as a vision of a partnership between our County Council and the University we now have an iconic, extensively used, award winning library.