Hello to one and all,
I hope you have all managed to keep cool in the somewhat melting and debilitating weather. I have had a varied second month in office.
I was honoured to speak at the celebration of life for Mr Arthur Winchester. It would be easier to talk about the things Arthur was not involved with. A well-known and well-liked figure in the town, he gave his time to many local organisations as both a secretary and chairman. As Deputy Town Clerk, he was a highly respected public servant of the highest calibre and an avid supporter of Ipswich Town. As you would expect, many family members and friends attended, sharing stories and fond memories.
As Mayor, I am pleased to continue the tradition of attending the town’s Twinning Association meetings. The AGM was a reminder of the dedication shown by a committee that has worked tirelessly to maintain the well-established entente cordiale that began in 1979. It was encouraging to hear that, like us, the people of Verneuil-sur-Avre remain committed to sustaining visits between our communities. As with all similar organisations, a great deal of effort goes into maintaining and strengthening these important links.
My next invitation was to the 1st Combs Scouts Annual Duck Race. It is hard to imagine that this legendary event has been running for more than 30 years, yet it remains as popular as ever. Despite the threat of showers, it was wonderful to see so many people in attendance. There was an array of stalls, including some very busy favourites such as the wine-or-water game and the satisfyingly destructive smash-the-crockery stall, alongside the traditional duck races.
I did indeed participate and, on the firm understanding that any winnings would be retained to boost the coffers, joined in the fun. Those of you who know me will not be surprised to hear that I felt it fitting to show my support by having a rubber duck painted on my forehead. Thankfully, the sunshine outweighed the rain and a good time was had by all, thanks to the efforts of everyone involved.
My next engagement took me into the world of one of my favourite classic tales, Jekyll and Hyde. The Stowmarket Musical Theatre Company, who were spectacular in The Addams Family last year, once again delivered an incredible production. The cast were sensational, and the portrayal of the main character was breathtaking. The audience was completely absorbed in the drama, music and performance. Every member of the cast could easily have stepped onto the stage of any notable London theatre. I know many people, myself included, are already looking forward to the company’s next production.
It only seems like five minutes ago that, as Deputy Mayor, I enthusiastically opened the Jubilant event in 2025. I was therefore looking forward to seeing this year’s completed projects on display. The Jubilant Festival invites local schools to participate in a themed exhibition under the guidance of professional practitioners. This year’s theme, Revolution, inspired a wide range of creative interpretations, including a reimagined version of a Beatles classic featuring additional lyrics written by the students. Other projects included drama, filmmaking and artwork.
The completed work was showcased across several of our wonderful local venues, including the Food Museum, The Mix, the John Peel Centre, the library, Fox Yard and Red Gables, with the Regal also helping to host the event. Having witnessed the hard work that students put into achieving this event, I can honestly say it is awe-inspiring. As a town, we should be proud of these facilities and support them whenever we can. The Stowmarket Culture Group and Jubilant provide young people with opportunities to participate, achieve and deliver great things.
This month was certainly a cultural journey. Louise and I were delighted to attend the Stowmarket Chorale Summer Gala Concert, held at the United Reformed Church. While it was a wonderful venue, there was also a sense of sadness as this will be the last concert performed there before the church closes later this year.
The concert formed part of the choir’s year-long celebration of 125 years in existence. What a performance it was. A selection of great oratorio choruses and arias was delivered magnificently, with international tenor soloist Jonathan Hanley performing every note and syllable beautifully. The choir, right here in the heart of Suffolk, created a truly uplifting experience, allowing the audience to drift away with every melodic phrase. The evening was magical, and both Louise and I are already looking forward to seeing them again. If you have the opportunity, please spend an evening with this highly polished gem of our town.
It was also a great honour to be part of Stowmarket Armed Forces Day. The collaboration between the Town Council, Mid Suffolk District Council and the Royal British Legion created a day of reflection and connection with serving personnel and veterans from our local area. It was a fitting opportunity to demonstrate how closely the history of our town and surrounding communities has been intertwined with support for those who have served in conflicts and operations around the world.
In 2010, our commitment to the Armed Forces was further recognised when we proudly bestowed the Freedom of Stowmarket upon personnel from Wattisham Air Base. Today, that commitment remains as important as ever. It can be seen in the large crowds who attend Remembrance Sunday each year and in the work of our excellent Stowmarket Branch of the Royal British Legion, whose members remain dedicated in all that they do.
