As we enter November, during the early part of this month we focus on remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedoms.  We also recognise and celebrate those who have gained their academic and vocational qualifications.

On Sunday the mayoress and I joined other dignitaries in Gheluvelt Park for the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regimental Association Service. The service was conducted by Rev Colin Butler and wreaths were laid at the memorial. Afterwards I joined members of the Regimental Association at Barbourne Ex-Servicemen’s Club.

On Monday I was at the University of Worcester Graduation Dinner in the Worcester Arena. It was a fantastic occasion – especially for the graduates from 2020 and 2021 at the dinner. I was seated next to Christopher Burdon, who was awarded a University Fellowship at the Graduation Ceremony in the Cathedral the following day.

It was a privilege to attend the following morning’s graduation ceremony and see the many nursing graduates receive their degrees. The University Chancellor HRH The Duke of Gloucester was in attendance and in my capacity as Mayor, I was honoured to be seated next to him on the platform. Before the graduation ceremony we were given a tour of the newly opened Undercroft at the Cathedral; this space is already proving its worth for educational and cultural activities.

On Wednesday it was time to recognise the achievements of apprentices across Herefordshire and Worcestershire at the Annual Apprentice Awards Evening at Sixways Stadium. Certificates were presented to apprentices in Commerce and Engineering, with special awards for those with outstanding performance. Due to Covid restrictions last year awards for both 2020 and 2021 were given out.

Finally, as I mentioned in my column last week, Worcester has just hosted the Elgar Festival. On Saturday the mayoress and I attended the Gala Concert in the Cathedral and heard a fantastic rendition of Elgar’s Enigma Variations performed by the Worcestershire based English Symphony Orchestra.