The weekend started with an evening at the Guildhall to recognise the achievements of City Council staff over the year.  Originally named as the WOSCARS, it celebrates the hard working and dedicated staff and front line teams who keep our services running. It was a real opportunity for the unsung heroes to be acknowledged.

Saturday saw the annual Christmas Peace and Friendship party at St Martin’s Church on London Road, where we welcomed members from across the community to share food, laughter and the chance to make new friends. Thank you to the residents, Church parishioners, the Rotary Club and Worcester Muslim Welfare Association for making it another successful event, helping to spread peace, joy and harmony.

Later in the afternoon I got to enjoy the company of St Paul’s Church congregation for their Christmas Dinner. I spoke with many of them individually afterwards to thank them for the wonderful work they do in the community.

Monday saw two carol services – both equally as enjoyable. The Chairman of the County Council, Brandon Clayton, invited me up to County Hall for his annual Christmas Service.  Later in the evening I went off to the Cathedral again for a service which was packed to the rafters with Scouts, Cubs and Beavers.

I got the chance of ticking another item off my bucket list on Tuesday, when I was invited to be Santa for the day and bring some festive cheer to city residents. Although I didn’t quite get the Reindeer or the Elves to support me (or a Flying Sleigh), I managed to cheer up a few children with my dabbing, flossing and very poor dancing moves (just trying to bring Santa into the 21st century!)

Having the chance to witness children from RGS Worcester at their Star Search Final was an experience I will not forget. This internal talent show, loosely based on Britain’s Got Talent, saw 15 acts perform in front of a crowd of about 150. Each act unique and equally impressive! Well done to all who took part – I look forward to future stars in the coming years!