My first engagement as Mayor of Worcester was to attend the exciting launch of Worcester Stands Tall.  This is a promotion on behalf of St Richard’s Hospice where some very colourful model giraffes, that will receive sponsorship, will be seen in various locations around our City over the next couple of years.  I promise you that it will be unmissable!

Shortly afterwards I was invited to a lovely ceremony where Mrs Miriam Harvey, who has been so involved in promoting the heritage of Worcester, received the British Empire Medal from the Lord Lieutenant Sir Patrick Holcroft.

Last Friday I attended a sadder occasion at the Cathedral – the funeral of Mike Layland, a legend in the City of Worcester. The Dean, Peter Atkinson, was able to sum up all of Mike’s achievements which included serving as a councillor for 44 years and holding the office of Mayor twice.  This service was officially recognised in 2014, when Mike was made a Freeman of the City.

This last weekend brought the seventeenth annual Motor Festival to Worcester, with so many new, old, restored and classic cars.  The weather may not have been great but there were certainly plenty of people around admiring and reminiscing about these cars.  I should say a big thank you to all those who participated, helping to promote Worcester to both locals and visitors alike.

I was back at the Cathedral on Saturday afternoon, giving a short speech during a special service to bless animals.  With over a 100 dogs in attendance, an Eagle Owl, skunk and python, the sole cat present was considered by one and all to be rather brave.

Having attended two Council meetings in Kidderminster and Redditch where new Mayors were elected, I finished the week by visiting the branch of the Worcester Sea Cadets, while they paraded before a Naval Officer.  They took the opportunity of displaying their various seamanship skills before an audience of delighted parents and guests.  They also received awards, which I am sure they will be able to present to potential employers in the future.