Well, the big day is here at last. After serving as Deputy Mayor for a year, with my wife, Elaine, as Deputy Mayoress, we finally took over from Ken and Hazel today. This year’s ceremony was held in the newly refurbished Council Chamber at the Plaza, and was attended by almost 200 guests.
During a break in the proceedings, while I changed into the Mayor’s robe, there was entertainment in the way of songs given by the choir from Hart Plain Junior School. Judging from the applause, it was extremely well received.
Hart Plain Junior School
This year it was decided to have four Mayor’s Cadets instead of the usual three. The Army, the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines and the Royal Air Force are represented by Oliver Cox, Harry Woodman, Scott Cahill and Danielle Vinter. They were all given their certificates and Mayor’s Cadet badges.
Mayor’s Cadets
This year I have decided that my charities will be, firstly, the local branch of the Samaritans, FLASH, a local Autism support group, CancerWise, who offer support to cancer sufferers and their families and Smile Support & Care, who are building a respite centre alongside Rachel Maddocks special needs school.
I also announced that this year’s Chaplain will be Father Mike Sheffield, from St. George’s Church in Waterlooville.
In the evening there was a banquet at the Brookfield Hotel in Emsworth attended by more than 80 people who enjoyed a very pleasant evening.
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