To receive any announcements from the Mayor.
Minutes:
The Mayor made the following announcements:
“I am delighted to share a few highlights from my recent engagements around the Borough. But before I begin today’s announcement, I would like to pause for a moment of reflection and remembrance.
On the 21st of April, the world lost a deeply spiritual and guiding figure with the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. As Mayor of Spelthorne, and on behalf of our Borough, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community and to all those whose lives have been touched by his words, his humility, and his unwavering commitment to peace, compassion, and justice.
Pope Francis was not only a religious leader but a moral voice for the world—a voice that reminded us of the power of love, forgiveness, and unity in a time when these values are needed most.
Let us hold a moment of silence in his honour. Would you please all stand.
The Chamber observed a minute’s silence
Thank you very much and will you please all be seated. May the Pope’s legacy continue to inspire us in our work and in our communities.
I have the pleasure to report on my activities since our last meeting. Over the past months, I have continued to actively engage with residents, community groups, and organisations within and outside our boroughs fulfilling my civic responsibilities and promoting the values of service, unity, and pride in the Borough.
Civic Awards Ceremony
Let me begin with a very special occasion, the Civic Awards Ceremony, where I had the privilege of recognising 18 outstanding individuals who have gone above and beyond to serve our community. The Civic Award remains the highest distinction conferred by the Spelthorne Civic Award Trust and the event celebrated a broad range of contributions – from volunteering and neighbourhood support to youth engagement and environmental stewardship.
King’s Award for Voluntary Service
I also had the great pleasure of hosting the King’s Award for Voluntary Service presentation for our brilliant Litterpickers Group. Alongside the Surrey Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff, we honoured the group’s tireless work in keeping Spelthorne clean and beautiful. A well-deserved recognition. Tomorrow evening another well deserving group from Spelthorne, The Revelaires will be awarded the Kings Award for voluntary service this year.
Supporting the Business Community
New businesses in Spelthorne are growing, and in view to supporting Local Business Community, I was delighted to open two new and exciting ventures in our Borough. The first one is
· The Magpie pub in Sunbury following a full refurbishment.
Celebrating World Poetry Day
World Poetry Day was another cultural highlight. In partnership with the Surrey Poets Laureateship, we celebrated “Spelthorne: 50 Years of Memories”. It was moving to hear poems from schools, local poets, and residents, and I was delighted to award prizes to the most touching and creative entries.
Staines Pancake Race.
Next was the Staines pan cake Day, Spelthorne businesses were well represented at the Pancake Race in Staines Town Centre, organised by the Rotary Club. Our Spelthorne council teams participated and nearly won! And I must give credit to both teams, Maxine and Hind did very well. Also, I discovered that our Deputy Chief Executive isn’t just a financial expert, he is quick runner too!
International Women’s Day
To mark the International Women’s Day, I joined the Women at Work Group for an inspiring celebration of women’s achievements and their vital role in our community. It was a powerful and uplifting event and it was a pleasure to be part of such a positive and empowering gathering.
Spelthorne in Bloom
Another wonderful initiative I was proud to launch is Spelthorne in Bloom, which is now underway. I look forward to seeing the creative floral displays brightening up the Borough as we head into summer.
Fund Raising Activities
I also had the pleasure of enjoying afternoon tea at Squire’s GardenCentre, which was a wonderful opportunity to fundraise and connect with residents in a warm and relaxed setting.
Elvis Night
We hosted an Elvis Night to fundraiserin support of my nominated charities, and it was a great evening of music, laughter, and generosity. Thank you to all who attended and continuing supporting my nominated charities
Engaging with Neighbouring Boroughs
I was pleased to represent Spelthorne at several events beyond our Borough. These included charity events hosted by the Mayors ofRunnymede and Elmbridge, as well as a wonderful Civic Day in Epsom and Ewell. These occasions help to strengthening our regional ties and building friendships with neighbouring councils, thus strengthening the bonds between our communities.
Looking Ahead to some key upcoming events, there are a few major events Iwould like to share with you:
· On 25 April, we will present the Kings Award for voluntary service to the Revelaires.
· On 26th April, we hold a civic ceremony to celebrate the 35 years of twinning with Melun and 15 years of twinning with Grand Port. It will be a proud moment of international friendship. In the evening, we are hosting the Mayor’s Ball, a celebration of our community, our charities, and our partnerships—including our twinning ties with Mauritius and France.
· On 08 May, we will mark VE Day with a ceremony at the Council Offices at 10.45am honouring those who served and sacrificed for our freedom.
It has been a vibrant few weeks. So, as you can see, it has been a busy time, but also a truly rewarding one. Thank you to everyone who continues to give so much to our community. It is a privilege to serve as your mayor, and I look forward to the weeks ahead.