So, a relatively quiet week on the formal mayoral events as things go, but an extremely busy week in visiting and supporting community groups and organisations and local businesses.
The Brownies came to visit Grove House on Monday night and came armed with some seriously challenging questions – always a pleasure to welcome the groups and to let them hear and see some of the history behind the Mayoral role.
Becky Wisbey, Head of Community Services and I met with the owners of the Old Palace Lodge on Friday morning to continue our conversation on how we can support those staying in the hotel at present become more involved and engaged in the community. The council will be looking at ways of engaging through activities in the coming weeks. Whilst we were at the hotel talking, it was nice to be able to engage with some of the residents and to also see The Community Church / Dunstable Conference Centre come in and invite all to their “feeding the community” on Sunday.
On Friday night I held my Civic Service. An unusual day/night of the week to hold a service, but it went extremely well. With over 150 in attendance, including the fabulous Rock Choir, a large Sea Cadet contingent and Girlguiding group, I was able to present some of the Mayor’s Community Ambassador Awards. This is a new award that I chose to launch that recognises the services of individuals to their communities over a long period of time. To read more about the recipients please follow Liz Jones Community on Facebook.
On Sunday morning, I went along to Sports Traider in the Quadrant as they were holding an event SPRING INTO ACTION – “GET ON YOUR BIKE”. Sports Traider is a charity that works to ensure inclusivity within sport. I met with the chief exec, Lance Haggith and his store manager to launch their Raffle of a Trek Bike worth several hundreds of pounds. Lance and I will be working together in bringing communities across Dunstable together in the coming weeks… more to come on that.
Whilst in town I also popped into Waldons Emporium, the new pet store and picked up a good selection of natural treats for my two pooches. A great family business that continues to grow and add more stock. Exciting plans ahead too to develop further.
Kazmicks then hosted my charity lunch – a wonderful set meal for 33 guests that helped to raise monies for my chosen charities, and a chance to issue a further two awards.
The week ahead is the start to what is going to be a busy 10-week period with lots of invitations coming in for myself and Lisa to attend events and celebrations. Please contact democratic@dunstable.gov.uk if you would like me to come to your events before the 15 May!