It’s six months now since I took over the role of Mayor of Worcester, and what a fantastic experience it has been so far!  Discovering just how many people give up their time to ensure charitable organisations run effectively and smoothly was a real eye-opener.  And listening to their accounts of what they get out of it, be it life skills, work experience or just enjoying the company of others, is really uplifting.

This was exemplified by a small group of independent fundraisers who were at the Guildhall last Friday holding a coffee morning and receiving donations on behalf of the charity Headway (coincidentally one of my chosen charities).  It was a cold morning but those standing outside were not put off by the weather and were there all morning raising funds.

 

That afternoon Alison and I went to the Cathedral to take part in the Lights of Love Service held on behalf of St Richard’s Hospice.  This was a lovely service with singing from the Kings Hawford School Senior Choir, where candles were lit by those in attendance to remember departed loved ones.

 

In the evening we went to a concert at St Paul’s Church organised on behalf of Deaf Direct.  This was great entertainment where singers, signers and a Ukulele Band took part.  There was a fair bit of audience participation as well, particularly when it came to practicing our signing skills.

On Saturday 11 November we opened the new Poundstore in St. Martin’s Quarter, before visiting the Cathedral.  We joined the Royal British Legion in a two minute silence at 11.00am and laid wreaths at the Cenotaph.  That afternoon we went to Chelmsford Court warden controlled apartments.  It was their Fete and there were plenty of refreshments and stalls to entertain both residents and visitors.

Despite the weather there was a huge crowd in the City Centre to watch the Remembrance Service and March Past on Sunday.  It’s apparent that there are so many Worcester people who still wish to pay their respects to those who lost their lives not only during the First World War, but in conflicts since.  The City fell silent at 11.00am after which, once again, wreaths were laid.  Numerous military and civilian groups took part in the march past of the Guildhall, where the Lord Lieutenant Patrick Holcroft took the salute.