So, I became Mayor at the end of May but despite my Induction, I really didn’t know what it would mean or be like. Would it feel stuffy, formal or antiquated? Would I fit in? Well, after 6weeks I have found the experience of meeting so many local people all doing their best to make Todmorden a better place extremely moving. What could be a greater privilege than highlighting their endeavours and achievements?
The first thing I did was to Chair the AGM for the Todmorden Society or the Blind. Present were a dozen local people, none of whom I had met before who have spent years finding ways to make life better for those with visually impairments. From a formal meeting in the centre of town, my next appointment was at a converted ancient barn way up in the hills to celebrate 25 years since The Woodcraft Folk had taken it over and developed it. I planted a tree with some young children and marveled at both the views and the camaraderie of all present. Back in the Town Hall I showed some Japanese tourists around our historic building and then headed off to the Park for the annual Picnic organized by the ever wonderful Friends of Centre Vale Park.
Three outings, one to the Hippodrome for a brilliant production of Educating Rita, then to The Town Hall for an equally striking and powerful performance from the Todmorden Orchestra and finally to St Mary’s Church for a Music for the Many fundraiser hosed by the Three Valleys Gospel Choir, confirmed what a wealth of talent as well as commitment we have in our town.
A spell in the fresh air with the Pennine Animal Welfare Society at their Fun Day & Dog Show and a Sunday afternoon at the Medical Aid for Palestine fundraiser held at the Roomfield Baptist Church remind me that compassion and community spirit are alive and well. I’ve got plenty of other events scheduled over the next few months and I hope to make many new friends as well as seeing some old ones.
The most important thing to say is that despite the robes, the chains and the tradition. I am here to serve you. To help where I can and to celebrate where that’s appropriate. Don’t be shy about making yourself known to me. And if there’s something you’re concerned about, let me know and I’ll see if I can help.