Virgin Kitesurfing Armada at Hayling Island – 11th and 12th October

Unfortunately Richard Branson was not able to attend although he had hoped to be there – but he was busy launching an aircraft in America. He did send a message of encouragement/congratulations to participants.

It was a nail biting but exciting wait on Saturday evening while the representative from the Guinness Book of Records recorded the number who had taken part and completed the mile to see if they had beaten their world record. Sadly this was missed by just 8 due to the almost complete lack of wind this morning and afternoon. On Sunday (unfortunately I was not able to be there) the Stand Up Paddle Boarding record was broken so this will be appearing in the Guinness Book of Records.

Well done to all who took part in both events. An excellent evening of celebration mingled with a little sadness at missing the Kitesurfing record was enjoyed by all present.

Professional Kitesurfer, Lewis Crathern was at the event a person well known to all kitesurfers, the organisers of the event are SNOW CAMP is an innovative youth charity founded by Daniel Charlish. They use a unique combination of skiing, snowboarding and life-skills programmes to support inner-city young people.

 

Public Auction to raise funds for the Parish of Warblington with Emsworth

There was viewing of the lots between 11.00 am and 2.00 pm and the Auction itself started at 2.00 pm. I ‘took the gavel’ and auctioned the first 10 items – great fun! – I raised nearly £100 on just these items. The hall was jam packed with goodies and the lots went fast and furiously once the brilliant proper auctioneer, Hilary Bolt, took over. I hope it was successful in raising lots of funds for the parish, as I could not stay due to my next official engagement.

 

Meet the Men’s Shed Leaders at The Plaza, Havant – 10th October

Although I am a woman, I was invited to meet the international leaders of the Men’s Shed movement. This organisation began in Australia way back and David Helmers the CEO of the Australian Men’s Shed was here in Havant (after attending a special meeting in Ireland) along with John Evoy of the Irish Men’s Shed and Mike Jenn, Chairman of the UK Men’s Shed.

Local men shed organisers and members met to promote and inform on the progress within the Havant Borough. We will have opened 3 new Sheds in the Borough recently.

Men’s Sheds are places offering facilities and community atmospheres; where skills and tools can be shared, projects worked on and new friends made. Mental health research shows that participation in activities, especially as we get older, will enhance health prospects and lead to a more fulfilling later time of life.

A professional film company recorded an interview in the Mayor’s Parlour with David Helmers which will promote Men’s Sheds internationally when it is aired on television.

I look forward to taking up the invitation of visiting the Waterlooville shed to see the progress with their building.

 

Meeting with Bob and Sue Lampard – Out of the Shadows – 7th October

A very successful meeting with Bob and Sue, to discuss the music for my Christmas Charity Ball being held at Mill Rythe on Saturday 20^th December. It promises to be a super special evening – all are welcome. Details as on the attached flyer or to purchase tickets please contact Anne Thurlow on 023 9244 6152.