I hope this edition finds you well and you are enjoying the Autumn months. As usual, I have been busy out and about in the community meeting residents, supporting local events, and looking ahead to exciting future projects across the area. Of course, on Sunday 2 November we have our amazing free fireworks display at the Jubilee Centre which I hope you had chance to enjoy.
As a Mayor, I am often asked to attend or open events to support the work of different communities or groups in our town. It is a pleasure to do this, and I am proud that we have such a diverse and inclusive community. This something as a council we strive to nurture, so everyone feels safe and welcomed here. Most importantly, I will be laying a wreath at the Remembrance Memorial at the Willowbrook Centre on Sunday 9 November at 11am. Below are some of the things I have been doing on behalf of the Council and our town.’
I have been visiting a number of schools to chat with year 1 children about the role of Mayor and what is good for our community.
It was an honour to present the prizes to the winners of the Bradley Stoke in Bloom. Best Front Garden (Large) 2025 went to Paul & Judith Johnson. Best Front Garden (Small) 2025 went to Catherine O’Shea. Facebook Favourite 2025 went to Bluebell Gardens Gardening Club. ‘Greenest’ Garden 2025 went to Paul & Judith Johnson.
The Council has held a couple of planning meetings and has already arranged a full programme of activities around 8 March (the date of the actual International Women’s Day) ranging from a film night to craft/talks/workshop events involving all sections of the community.
I am delighted that planning for a full festival in June 2026 is well underway and thrilled to have the support and collaboration of many groups such as Bradley Stoke Youth Football Club, Brightwell, Southern Brooks and Sole Sister to name a few.
I was pleased to support Bradley Stoke Lions Club and Vision West for their awareness raising about sight loss at the Willow Brook Centre event on 11 October.
At the end of September, I was invited to join the celebrations to mark the 171st anniversary of the social reformer and philosopher, Guru, who promoted peace and equality in India. The event had a procession, was well attended, a real celebration with colourful dancing and tasty food.
The Citizens Advice Bureau attended this and provided information on home energy saving measures. They provide a weekly drop-in service every Wednesday 10am – noon at the Jubilee Centre. Diabetes UK provided healthy nutrition cards for meals and the Brightwell Centre giving information about their services.
The next Councillor Surgery will be at the Willow Brook Centre on Saturday 22 November from 10am until noon.