Mayor’s Blog – August
August and the summer has gone too soon. But there is much to remember. I attended the Council’s community fun days at Westham and Wyke, and a separate community-minded event at Redlands, run by the carnival committee. While at Redlands I visited the Lantern Trust’s stall, my chosen charity for the year. I’m also grateful to our Deputy Mayor, Cllr Caroline Nickinson for attending events I wasn’t able to make, such as the celebration event at Radipole Park and Gardens to mark completion of the revamp which has proving to be very popular with our younger residents.
Later in the month, it was great to see the wishing well restored at Greenhill by the Rotary Club, and I was joined by Islay (pictured below, left) who helped cut the ribbon. It was a magical afternoon.
The food banks run by Refresh ( Churches Together in Weymouth) have been expanded to include a baby and child hub with all the kit needed to support a family. I visited their launch celebration on the Granby. If any residents need some support, or can help support them with donations, they are called “Family Matters”.
I attended to represent the town at the Roma Holocaust memorial service at Sherborne Abbey. This poignant service highlighted a marginalised group of people who suffered dreadfully under the Nazis, alongside the Jews. A painful message from history.
Two days later we were confronted with protests on the prom in Weymouth. This was in the first week of protests when other towns and cities saw much worse disorder. I saw the actions of our police and have total admiration for their bravery and calm in the face of violent assaults. Our force reacted in a proportionate and measured manner. They contained the situation and acted in a very professional manner. They saved the town from the damage others suffered. I am very thankful to them.
The final notable mayoral trip was to Louvier, our twin town in France. We were looked after very well by our host families in this annual exchange visit. Their town was liberated from the Nazis on 25th August, 80 years ago. Their relief coming from American forces who had left from Weymouth on D-Day. I joined their Mayor and other representatives at a remembrance service.
An unexpected surprise was seeing their town. The Mayor had been there for 10 years. The town had seen massive investment – a conference / business centre, new roads, new industrial sites, an enormous leisure complex, a major council house scheme, a new care home, school and nursery. The list goes on. There were over 20 such projects, which was inspiring to see.
As we’re now into September, there is lots to look forward to as events across the town continue at pace. I hope you will join me at the Weymouth Water Fest on Sunday 22nd September and have a go at sea swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, beach yoga, and even sauna taster sessions. For full details, visit the news item: New festival launches with chance to try out water sports – Weymouth Town Council | Weymouth Town Council
ENDS