When I took on the role of Mayor of Todmorden, I knew I’d have the opportunity to meet some special people, but the reality has exceeded my expectations. I like to think I was already aware of the many wonderful organisations, charitable groups and volunteers in Todmorden, but my eyes have been opened even further over the course of the year.
My year as Mayor started with a lovely lunch at the Top Brink with the Society of the Blind, who put on numerous events throughout the year to thank their volunteers. These volunteers provide essential support to people with visual impairments in our community, and it was a pleasure to meet them and hear more about the important work they do.
One of the biggest joys of my life has been my long career in education. I’ve since retired but I am now a governor at a few local schools, including Todmorden High School, so it was a pleasure to go along for the day back in May to listen to some Audio Walk soundbites – a project spearheaded by Todmorden Town Council, with the High School students. I also presented an award for the winning Audio Walk poster design, which is on display in the noticeboard at Todmorden Bandstand. More about the Audio Walk coming soon!
The Country Fair timed perfectly with the start of the Civic Year. It was a scorching hot day in our beautiful Green Flag Award-winning Centre Vale Park. I have to say, it was a real hardship judging cakes and jams while enjoying a wander around the different stalls! I’ve since been back to Centre Vale for the Friends of Centre Vale Park’s Picnic in the Park – a fantastic family day out with a seaside theme.
I’ve attended a number of events at the magnificent St Mary’s Church, from wine tasting to musical numbers with Mel & C, and Hymns and Pimm’s. All of these events have been fundraisers, raising money to support the church’s work.
The Mayor, with Mel & C at St. Mary’s Church
One of the events was particularly special for me – I think I might be the first Mayor to perform in a gospel choir while wearing the Mayoral Chain of Office! I’ve been a member of the Three Valleys Gospel Choir for many years, so it was really memorable to attend as Mayor. The event was another fundraiser, this time for the Unitarian Church. How lucky we are to have so many beautiful churches in our town.
Speaking of beautiful buildings, the recently refurbished Todmorden Town Hall was on display for Town Deal and Calderdale Council stakeholders. I was lucky enough to be invited along as Mayor and given the grand tour of the building. It was great to see it looking so fantastic following the refurbishment. There will be plenty of events held there, so keep your eyes peeled!
The Great British Bake-Off Musical at the Hippodrome was another real treat. Well done to everyone involved in putting on such a wonderful show. It’s fantastic to see local talent on display, and we’re so lucky to have both TAODS and the Hippodrome here in our town.
Something else we’re incredibly lucky to have in Todmorden is the spectacular number of volunteers, all working to make our town a better place for everybody.
A few events I’ve attended have showcased this better than ever. The Town Council’s Volunteer Fair at the Town Hall was a wonderful display of the opportunities available to people who want to get involved in our community. There was also Incredible Edible’s Gardening Sunday – a real testament to the dedication and hard work of a small group of people, and an organisation that has now grown tremendously. It was lovely to see such an open and enthusiastic display of community spirit.
The Mayor on her visit to the Incredible Edible Todmorden gardens.
I’m so lucky that being Mayor gives me the opportunity to experience all of this and, most importantly, to meet the amazing people who do so much for our town.
I can’t wait to meet so many more!