As the summer progresses and Covid restrictions are gradually lifted, I am delighted that communities everywhere are beginning to return to some form of normality. This has also given myself and the mayoress the opportunity of fulfilling a few more of our responsibilities, and we have been promoting Whittlesey and surrounding villages and joining in their respective events and celebrations.
My wife, Ann, and I have recently promoted our town at the High Sheriff’s Garden Party at Little Shelford. We also attended Rushden Town Council Proms in the Park and a Civic Open Day at the United States Air Force at Alconbury.
Recent events
The final music festival of the summer has taken place on the Buttercross in gorgeous weather. I know by personally being amongst the stewards how popular these festivals have become. My thanks go to the chief organiser, Cllr Ray Whitwell, and his team of councillors and community volunteers. All have given up their time to make these events a success. In addition, I’d like to thank Whittlesey Town Council, McCains, Jones Bros, and Boons Transport for their sponsorship. It is the intention that these events will return again next summer.
At the time of writing I am looking forward to the honour of opening the long-awaited Coates Fête. This originally took place in May each year but has not done so for a number of years. Although this year it’s being held in September, hopefully it will return to its original May slot next year. My thanks go to the hard-working village committee. With financial support from Whittlesey Town Council, they have been able to revive this village celebration.
Equally, my congratulations and thanks go to Robert Windle. This year he and his committee have organised the Whittlesey Big Bash, which will take place on the Sunday usually reserved for the Whittlesey Festival. I will be opening this event also, in company with the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire, Mrs Caroline Bewes DL.
On the same day, a service at the War Memorial will celebrate the centenary of the local branch of The Royal British Legion. Stephen Barclay MP, High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire, will be in attendance with myself. We will be accompanied by Cllr Alex Miscandlon, Chairman of Fenland District Council, and his wife, Pat.
I sincerely hope that as you read this article the above events have passed without incident or weather interruptions.
Whittlesey Citizen of the Year Award
Finally, at a ceremony held in the Remembrance Gardens in Station Road, Ann and I were delighted to present the Whittlesey Citizen of the Year Award to Robert Boddington. This is in recognition of his involvement in many local community groups and in particular for his work with Street Pride and the upkeep of the War Memorial at Eastrea
Likewise, it was an equal pleasure to present the Whittlesey Young Citizen Award at the same ceremony to Joseph Thompson. This is for his work in promoting autism awareness amongst his peers at Sir Harry Smith Community College and for raising in excess of £800 towards the cause. My hearty congratulations to both winners.
Until next time.
Cllr David K M Mason Mayor & Leader – Whittlesey Town Council
