I would like to thank the thousands of people who turned out for the official Christmas lights switch on last week – and also the BBC H&W Radio team for making the event extremely special. Cathedral Square is fast becoming the destination of choice for such events – it is proving a great investment for the City.

My consort for the day was Luca Wooding, from Regency High School.  He thoroughly enjoyed the experience and was proud to be the local celebrity as we jointly switched on the lights!

This week I was kindly invited by the Worcester Muslim Welfare Association to Unity House, to see how the services they provide are benefitting the community. The Women’s Group, which encourages women of all ages to participate in activities that improve mental health such as exercise, arts and crafts, was a highlight.  Keep up the good work!

On a sombre note, I attended the funeral of local political legend Geoff Williams in a packed service at Astwood Cemetery. Geoff was a man of great principle and intelligence, who served this city selflessly.  He was awarded the Freeman of the City only last month and will soon be honoured in a ceremony to mark his contribution to the city.

The service programme at the funeral left us with a quote from the great Ralph Waldo Emerson to reflect upon:

“What is success?

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate the beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded!”

We have a proud tradition in the city of welcoming people and going out of our way to help those in need. So please carry on that tradition and spread the message of peace.  Look out for those that need help, so that everyone’s Christmas can be full of joy and happiness.