I was delighted to help launch a week of celebration by welcoming Worcester Twinning Association members and visitors to the Guildhall to start a week of activities to mark 25 years of Twinning.

It was a particular pleasure to welcome Neville Swanson and former councillor Cliff Lord. They have been active in the association since the beginning and played major parts in cementing the relationships our city has with cities and towns in Germany, France, Lithuania and the USA.

Monday evening saw the Mayoress and I head to Evesham to join the Mayor of Evesham, Councillor Robert Raphael, for his charity Monk’s Supper.

Jill and I joined an exhibition preview on Tuesday, making the centenary of the life of Alice Ottley who played such a part in providing private education for girls in Worcester.

To the Swan Theatre on Wednesday, to see the Swan Theatre Amateur Company’s production of Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf. What an excellent production – congratulations to the small cast of only four. So much hard work goes into these productions; it is a pity they are not better supported.

Jill and I attended The Myriad Centre in Barbourne on Thursday, where profoundly handicapped adults are cared for. The importance of day services cannot be underestimated, and it was clear to see how much the attendees benefit from such a supportive environment.

Later, we attended the annual City of Worcester Sports Award, held at the Cricket Ground, where I helped present the awards. It was a privilege to meet so many inspirational people, following the remarkable summer of sport.

The challenge now is to ensure the legacy of the Olympics and Paralympics is recognised in our city and to ensure facilities are available to meet the demand.

Special guests Zach Purchase and Mel Clarke, silver medalists at London 2012

The week ended as it began, with the culmination of the week of celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of Worcester Twinning. On Friday Jill and I enjoyed the concert by The Elgar Chorale, with the selection of music from all the Twinning Countries being appreciated by all.

Saturday saw a procession with Ann of Cleves and Henry VIII in the city centre, followed by events in St Andrew’s Hall. My thanks are due to Worcester Concert Brass, local cubs and performers who made it into such a successful community event.

That evening the 25th Anniversary Dinner was held at the Guildhall, where it was great to meet visitors and Twinning Association members at the culmination of such a successful week.