Another one of those questions that no-one can answer...

Why are the sandwiches in my lunchbox always at their most disappointing when I've made them myself?

And now the end is near...

The countdown has started, just 5 more weeks to the elections and then who knows what? The good news is that even though the elections are on May 5th, I continue as Chairman until the Annual Council meeting on May 17th, which technically means I could be Chairman without being an elected councillor. It gets better... the Malvern Spring Garden show this year is to be on the weekend of the 12th, 13th and 14th of May, and my invite has arrived! We bought an absolutely fab garden bench that converts into a table and two benches, pub style, at last year's show, so may look out something suitable to match. Hopefully the weather be akin to what we're enjoying now.

The elections themselves look to be interesting, the only opposition is a chap by the name of Tim Perry, which means that he, Syd Harrison (my current co ward member) and myself have to fight it out for two seats. Tim has stood (unsuccessfully) as a Lib Dem councillor in County Council elections previously, but as chosen to turn his back on his party and stand as an Independent. I am also surprised (disappointed?) that he his chosen to drop out of the other organisations he has worked for over recent years, Upton Town Council & Upton Town Partnership, in order to dedicate his time to standing for District. My idea of a good councillor is someone who is involved in these sorts of organisations so that he can get a good feel for the mood of the town, not be a single voice in the wilderness.

Charity do fails to attract suppotr

Well, I'm trying...

A three course meal, reception drinks and evening of murder, mystery and merriment, on April 8th @ 7:30 in Upton's Memorial Hall, all for £25.00.

Despite excellent media coverage, thanks to Tarik et al at Malvern Gazette, we've so far managed to sell only 14 tickets. I know it's tight out there at the moment, but I'm sure it isn't that tight. The real losers (other than me having paid £60 for the script) will be my supported charities this year: Malvern Sea Cadets and The Greater Malvern Relief Chest. If anyone is tempted, please contact louise.anthony@malvernhills.gov.uk your support will be gratefully appreciated.

Otherwise, a quiet week on the Chairman's front.

Spent a very pleasant morning at Upton-upon-Severn's civic service this morning. Excellent catering, as always, by Bill. The Rev. Jeff Radcliffe announced his imminent return up north. I wonder what will happen to the Parish of Upton once he has gone?

Last weekend in January

Busy weekend coming up - Opening the toilet block in Malvern Link on Friday; Upton-upon-Severn's civic service Sunday morning with their delightful mayoress Andrea Morgan (no relation) then to Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury in the evening for a concert in aid of Tewkesbury Chairman's charity of the year. (I think it's Acorns, but I could be wrong.)

New Citizens

Spent yesterday afternoon at Worcester County Hall to witness a New Citizens ceremony. 30 new citizens were sworn in. I had no idea that people took it so seriously. Some even wanted photographs of me and the wife in our finery for their scrapbooks.

Sunday 18th July, Ledbury Civic Service

There was always a chance of rain today, but I'm pleased to say it held off. We spent lunch as a family at The Seasons Restaurant at Colwall Park Hotel. I'd purchased, as is my wont, several raffle tickets at the Malvern 150 celebrations (see earlier blog) and had won a voucher for £40 off sunday lunch, so had decided that this would be an ideal occasion. I have to say that the food was excellent and the service provided by Michael was second to none. The food must have been good, i watched my daughter eat and enjoy cabbage! The afternoon was enhanced by the fantastic display of Scarecrows around the village, so a big well done to all thise involved in setting up the day.

But I digress... Across the border into Herefordshire for The Civic Service at St. Michael and All Angels, with the Mayor and Mayoress of Ledbury, Paul and Tina Winter. This was my idea of a Town Civic Service with contributions from the Primary School, The High School, The Elim Church, The Catholic Church and the Ledbury Team Ministry themselves. as it should be, well done Ledbury, and thankyou for having us.