It has been an inspiring and moving Summer thanks to the many events to which I’ve been invited.
Since my last missive I have presented Awards to all the local participants of Todmorden in Bloom, every one of them brightening up our town; an achievement recognised by their success in both Yorkshire and Britain in Bloom competitions. I had my first Incredible Edible Sunday lunch – it certainly won’t be my last as they exemplify the sense of inclusive community we all must cherish.
I can’t thank the various music societies enough for the thrilling and moving concerts I’ve been to, whether it be Three Valleys Gospel Choir, Music for the Many, The Todmorden Choral Society and Orchestra. Likewise, many thanks to the Hippodrome which often feels like a home from home given their welcome, their energy and ceaseless activity; aside from the wonderful productions I have attended, I have also witnessed them launching the archival and building development projects. I wish them all well in their ambitious fundraising (if anyone has a spare £500,000…).
Given the number of coffee mornings to which I have been invited, my doctor feels I need to instigate a strict ‘no more cake’ policy but whether partaking or not, a big shout out to Todmorden Dementia Friendly, Amy Rooney’s fundraiser and Living Well – the last of which somehow persuaded me to get up and dance along to Sweet Caroline in front of the assembled guests. Attending the delicious Annual lunch for Todmorden Society for the Blind I heard the sad news that the Talking Newspaper would cease operations this year, so I attended their final event; less a mournful ending, more a celebration of all they have achieved in their 30 years of existence.
Thanks to everyone who participated in the Walsden Scarecrow Festival. It is visually a wonderful event and one which raises significant amounts of money for Local Charities. Likewise, to all those who took part in Big Swim with swimmers young – and not so young – raising funds for Healthy Minds.
I also want to congratulate two local businesses. Safe Spaces and Chapman and Sons, both of whom won the Kings Award for Industry, a significant achievement. Also, on the business front Cargodale invited me to their celebration of all things electric bikes, showcasing the wonderful opportunities and provisions in our town.
And finally, I helped at the launch activities leading up to the celebration of the Town Hall’s 150th Birthday. Watch this space for their upcoming events.
All in all, it’s been a busy few months, getting to meet even more people and learn more about all of the fantastic organisations, charities and events in our town.