Armed Forces Day Flag Raising Ceremony 23 June 2014

23 June – Armed Forces Day Flag Raising Ceremony

Today we joined other Councils across the country in raising a special flag to show support for our Armed Forces.   The Borough of Havant has close traditional links with the services and I am sure local people are proud to see the Armed Forces flag flying at the Plaza.     This was also a special day as immediately after the ceremony I had the privilege of presenting William Ferridge who had served as a Lance Corporal in Greece, Italy and Africa with the 8^th Army (the Desert Rats) with his medals.   Having never applied for his medals his friends at Havant Bowls Club hearing of this, applied for them on his behalf.   Williams is a remarkable man and I wish him many more years of happiness.

Sunday 22 June and Hampshire County First World War Centenary Service in Winchester Cathedral

Sunday 22 June

On Sunday 22 June, I was privileged to attend the Hampshire County First World War Centenary Service held in Winchester Cathedral hosted by the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, The Dean and Chapter of Winchester Cathedral and the Chairman and Leader of Hampshire County Council.   It was a lovely service helping all ages to reflect in the face of those events which challenge us with the question of life’s meaning and significance.

After the event we had refreshments in a marquee in the grounds of the Cathedral where we enjoyed the opportunity to meet many people sharing this special occasion.

21 June Hampshire Games and 3rd Hayling Scout Group’s Annual Award and Presentation Event

21 June

The Deputy Mayor and I started the day attending the Hampshire Games at Aldershot Military Stadium. We couldn’t stay long as we had a commitment to attend the 3^rd Hayling Scout Group’s Annual Award and Presentations Event at their 85^th Birthday Group Family Camp held in Shedfield. We were welcomed warmly and saw Scouts being presented with anything from their 10 to 40 year certificates for service to the Scout Movement.   After the award ceremony I wandered around the field going to the various tables of activities. At one of the tables youngsters were making badges and one of the scouts made one for me bearing the title ‘Mayor’ – this I will treasure!.    

The theme of this year’s camp was the Vilkings and at one of the tables, I made myself a gold belt with a gaudy buckle. I look forward to seeing the completely finished Viking ship that they were working on during the whole weekend which was to be a surprise to the younger ones at the camp!   I only saw it nearly complete but it was very good and looked very professional even at that stage.

In the evening I was invited to attend a D Day and First Word War Commemorative Dinner at the Ex-Servicemen’s Club in Brockhampton Lane, Havant. The evening was an opportunity to meet and speak with many ex service people and to reflect on the club’s activities over the years. It was a very pleasant evening and I thank them very much for the understanding that this gave me into the work of the Royal British Legion.