IT HAS been a great honour and privilege to represent Droitwich Spa at civic occasions throughout the town as well as in neighbouring towns.
The office of mayor is partly ceremonial but the mayor also represents the town council at events in Droitwich and in other towns.
Ex-councillor Mike Barratt was made Honorary Alderman on the day I was voted in as mayor and I had the privilege of swearing in ex-councillor Peter Pinfield as Honorary Alderman.
I have been pleased to welcome representatives from the high school and youth council who have given regular updates on their many activities to the council.
We have received representations from Barbara Middlemas who told us about the forthcoming celebrations for John Corbett’s 200th birthday anniversary and received representations from the Brine Heritage Group. We considered very informative reports from Sgt Sarah Kent.
Other memorable occasions have been the moving service on Remembrance Sunday, the Civic Service, the superb pantomime Cinderella at the Norbury Theatre and the Christmas lights switch-on which drew large crowds and was attended by our own Olympic silver medallist Rebecca Redfern.
St Richards Festival, Salt Fest and other festivals celebrated the town’s rich heritage.
My attendance at civic functions at Stourport, Kidderminster, Pershore, Bewdley and Worcester provided me with insight into town management and demonstrated the achievements of neighbouring towns.
Civic services were held in deeply moving and dramatic surroundings at Worcester Cathedral, St Mary’s Church, Kidderminster, the Abbey Church, Pershore, St John’s Bromsgrove, and at Bewdley and Tenbury.
I have visited a wide selection of voluntary groups including sporting clubs, church groups, cultural societies and associations providing support for the infirm and disabled.
I have been impressed and humbled by the time and expertise so many people are contributing to worthy causes – ‘Spectrum Days’, the Stroke Club, the Safe Place Scheme, Alzheimer’s Society and groups linked to our churches to name but a few unsung heroes.
Awards were made to Droitwich Boys and Girls Football clubs and to the members of Dolphins Swimming Club. The enthusiasm and dedication shown by their trainers and parents ensures the continuing success of these societies.
Exchange schemes organised by our French and German Twinning Associations have a thriving membership with an exciting programme of events laid on for their guests from Voiron and Bad Ems. Much credit is owed to their past and present chairmen and helpers.
Some societies are in need of more helpers, particularly to serve their committees and as committee chairmen. Consequently I have set out to publicise the societies I have visited with the hope publicity will encourage more people to participate.
I have presented three events to date. All intended to be pleasurable in their own right but also to lend publicity to the venues or performers.
These were a Sunday lunch at the Droitwich Golf Club, a big band concert at the Norbury Theatre and a Jazz Band concert at the Working Men’s Club.
Charities I nominated to benefit from funds raised include the Council for Voluntary Service and the Community Hall at Westlands.
I wish to thank our Town Clerk Pam Craney and assistant town clerks Mark Keld and Jane Greenfield who fulfill essential tasks in the smooth running of the town.
Coun Roy Murphy
Mayor of Droitwich Spa
