27 May
Well, this week saw the Mayor- Making on Tuesday at the Town Hall. It was quite splendid – Militia drumming and marching; Mayoral robing; civic dignitaries attending; refreshments welcomed afterwards! I spoke and (as usual) said 3 things: thanks to all; Mayor’s charities – Victoria Hospital and Plane Wimborne and how I intended to raise funds ; what a good place the Council is in with many positive features. The Militia then marched me along West Borough to The King’s Head so I could buy the soldiers a beer and seal their allegiance.
On Saturday, I attended the D-Day Commemoration at Tarrant Rushton Airfield…many important dignitaries and a sombre but positive feeling at the ceremon
20 May
What an amazing weekend for Wimborne Minster! The Battle for Wimborne was re-enacted by the English Civil War Society on 25-27 May 2024 with spectacular battles, living history, military parades and exhibitions. I was asked to welcome the troops and inspect them on the Minster Green. It all seemed to go well until I announced we would pay the troops in guineas but they thought I had said ‘Guinness’ and demanded ale from the town! I also opened a new shop – Thirty-Three – on the High Street in chains and robe. They were surprised but delighted and quickly posted the opening on social media. I am grateful to Antony Oliver for dragging me into the shop!
14 May
Delighted to have been elected Mayor of Wimborne Minster! We have much to do: co-opt and then elect 8 further councillors; start to deliver the new 5-year Strategic Plan; raise funds for the Mayor’s two charities (Victoria Hospital and Planet Wimborne); Support the residents, visitors and people who work here.
Attended the first Mayoral event at Allendale House – to welcome 75 French folk from our twin town, Valognes. We presented them with a lovely pottery vase and they gave Wimborne Minster an innovative metal silhouette of Valognes. The Marching Band concluded a successful morning. There was an evening meal at a local golf club and the Town Clerk kindly represented the town.