Mayor’s Column
CHRISTMAS is over! Turkeys are now casseroled, curried or have been turned into broth. Presents unwrapped, treasured or exchanged.
Mayoress Sara and I hope that you have had a merry little Christmas with your families.
Christmas began in Oswaldtwistle on November 28. We attended the Blessing of the Crib by the Rev Anthony Roberts and then with Carnival Royalty switched on the Christmas lights.
On Christmas Day Anthony was due to open Holy Trinity Church in Oswaldtwistle, providing Christmas Dinner for those homeless or on their own.
A magnificent gesture reflecting the true spirit of the season.
We visited Accrington Academy for a Christmas production based on Elf.
It was a magical evening with some very talented young people performing a delightful play to a packed house of proud parents.
I presented certificates to disadvantaged young people who had successfully completed a life course with the Princes Trust and The Fire and Rescue Service.
We attended a beautiful service of carols and lessons at Blackburn Cathedral again organised by Lancashire Combined Fire and Rescue Authority, an annual event raising monies for charity.
Fabulous work from the Fire Authority making a difference in the community.
The magic continued when we attended Bowley Scout Camp in Great Harwood for a Christmas Experience accompanied by Grandson Cody.
He was thrilled riding in Santa’s sleigh, making a shortbread decorated tree with Mrs Christmas and receiving a present from Santa.
We also joined Friends in Unison, a social club run by Franklin Smith and committee at The Pop Club in Accrington, for their Christmas Party.
A great club bringing pleasure to many more senior members of the community here in Hyndburn, and all royally entertained and fed and watered at their Christmas party.
We were in Altham to switch on the Christmas lights and listen to the Primary Schools singing competition.
It was bitterly cold but the occasion had a warmth all of its own as had the service at West End Methodist Church where we commemorated Olive Lomas, the founder of the great local charity “Only Foals and Horses, and also the schools Carol Service at All Saints Church in Clayton.
More Magic also at the Warner Street event where we enjoyed an odd glass of mulled wine with Carnival Queen the vivacious Helen Trickett.
A Christmas meal charity event at the White Bull in Oswaldtwistle where, with help from Kel and Pete, we have raised £350 for Mayoral Charities.
Carols around the tree in Great Harwood and two productions at The Civic.
First “It’s a Wonderful Life” which was heartwarming and brilliantly acted and a Variety Performance showcasing fantastic groups who use The Civic. The venue is a credit to the borough.
Between all this we attended a poignant service at Accrington Crematorium where we joined the relatives of people who have lost loved ones during the year.
The first Christmas following a bereavement can be particularly difficult and I’m sure our thoughts are with them.
Finally, Sara and I wish you a Happy and Peaceful 2018. Until next time.