The Mayor’s Report: Remembering the past and forward planning

At the recent meeting of the Alnwick Town Council, members were informed of the activities undertaken by the Mayor, Councillor Geoff Watson.

These included meeting members of Alnwick Lions Club to discuss the placing of memorial benches in Thomas Percy Wood. Later in the month a group of volunteers joined the Mayor at the wood to plant spring bulbs which the Council provided.

Together with the Town Clerk and other Councillors The Mayor attended the Alnwick Forum meeting with Northumberland County Council representatives.

Councillor Watson and colleagues also attended meetings that are taking place now for events being held next year such as the Spring Show.

Together with the Town Clerk and Cllrs Swinbank and Harrington he attended a meeting of the Borderlands group.

Again with colleagues, the Mayor accepted an invitation to attend the opening of the Alno Lounge in Alnwick. He reports: “The opening was well attended, and I was very impressed with the décor and reasonably priced menu. The staff were very friendly and helpful and I am sure this will prove to be an excellent addition to the town centre.”

Together with Cllr Gordon Castle Councillor Watson attended the Veteran’s Breakfast at the Lindisfarne Centre. These monthly meetings are proving to be popular with over 40 Veterans in attendance. Geoff said: “I am proud that Councillors give their backing to our military Veterans, and I know by speaking to them that they are appreciative of Alnwick Town Council’s recognition of their service.”

The Alnwick and Denwick Neighbourhood Plan Refresh continues. Councillor Watson chaired the latest meeting where he reported “The refresh of the plan is a long process but it is progressing well.”

A very important date in the Mayor’s schedule is Remembrance Sunday and together with Town Council staff and other Councillors he was proud to attend the service at St Pauls church and afterwards the ceremony at Alnwick War Memorial.

The Mayor then went to Alnwick Playhouse where he saw the moving contemporary performance ‘Poppy’ by Eliot Smith Dance.

On Tuesday 11th November the Mayor hosted the 2 minutes silence and ceremony in the Column Field. Even though it was raining heavily the occasion was well attended.