Agenda item

Announcements from the Mayor

To receive any announcements from the Mayor.

Minutes:

The Mayor made the following announcements:

 

“I am very pleased to report on my mayoral activities over the last two months since I took office on May 23, 2024.

 

Visit to Chennestone Primary Community School

 

I had the opportunity to visit Chennestone Primary Community School in Sunbury for their Annual Funday. I witnessed the young students attempting a Guinness World Record for the Largest Chu Chu Au Dance. The event was well attended by parents, students, and guests, and showcased the vibrant community spirit of our young residents.

 

Mayor’s Civic Service and 50th Anniversary Celebration

 

As per our tradition, the Mayor’s Civic Service was held this year at St. Matthews Church, followed by our 50th Anniversary celebration. I extend my gratitude to Father John for officiating a wonderful service. I also thank all the neighbouring boroughs’ mayors and consorts, past mayors, councillors, guests, and officers who graced the ceremony with their presence.

 

Surrey Mayors Association Welcome Event

 

The Surrey Mayors Association hosted a welcome event for all new and past mayors. I represented Spelthorne Borough Council and was accompanied by my deputy, Cllr John Doran, and our consorts. This event was a valuable opportunity for networking and sharing knowledge and experience with current and former mayors.

 

Annual General Meetings (AGMs) –

 

Spelthorne Business Forum

 

I attended the AGM of the Spelthorne Business Forum. It was a well-attended event with nearly 100 businesspeople from Spelthorne and surrounding areas. A raffle was organized, and the proceeds will support the charities I am endorsing this year.

 

Spelthorne Scouts

 

I also attended the AGM of the Spelthorne Scouts. I was impressed by their ongoing engagement in supporting young people’s personal development and empowering them to make positive contributions to Spelthorne.

 

D-Day Commemoration

 

We honoured the legacy of the D-Day generation by raising flags to mark the 80th anniversary of the Allied invasion of Normandy. This was a solemn occasion to remember and honour our D-Day heroes.

 

Armed Forces Day

 

I observed Armed Forces Day along with councillors, officers, and the public. Spelthorne Borough Council showed our support by flying the flag outside the Council Offices all week, recognizing the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community.

 

Rotary Club of Shepperton & Sunbury

 

I visited the Rotary Club of Shepperton & Sunbury to celebrate their 75 years of service to the community. This milestone reflects their long-standing commitment to our community’s welfare.

 

National Roses Show

 

I attended the National Roses Show hosted by Squires Garden Centre in Shepperton. I was proud to see the blooming roses exhibited by participants from Spelthorne as well as other national participants.

 

Staines Upon Thames River Day 2024

 

I had the pleasure of opening the Staines Upon Thames River Day 2024. It was a day filled with fun and amusements for residents of all age groups. This year, we revived a old tradition by welcoming the Lord Mayor of the City of London to our borough to celebrate an ancient City of London tradition of inspecting the London Stones. The Lord Mayor led a river flotilla to Staines, where the ceremony of touching the London Stone with a sword was carried out. The original stone, kept in the Spelthorne Museum, was also visited.

I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all councillors, officers, organizations, charities, and the public who have supported me in organising and participating in all the above-mentioned events. I am very proud to acknowledge that everyone is coming together for the greater good of the residents of Spelthorne regardless of which political party you represent.

 

I thank you very much for your continued support”.