By the time this gets read, as Mayor of Reading I will have attended more Carol Concerts in the last two weeks than I have in the last 30 years.
My vocal chords have been well exercised in recent weeks.
When I became Mayor I knew that the Christmas period would be very busy.
Being Mayor brings loads of invitations involving large and small, formal and informal, events across Reading but all reflect the diversity of our very active voluntary and community sector.
I was particularly delighted to attend the Royal Berks Hospital for the switch-on of the Christmas tree lights and a carol concert in the chapel.
A few days later the NHS Carol Concert was a ‘sell-out’ at our St Mary’s Minster Church with standing room only. A worthy tribute to our valued NHS staff and the many volunteers who do so much to assist the work of our local hospitals.
Reading also has its international contacts with strong twinning links to Dusseldorf. I’m delighted they have honoured the memory of the late Mayor Phoebe Cusden by naming a new square after her, as well as a new “Readinger Strasse”.
I’ve also met with the new Nicaraguan Ambassador and discussed strengthening our twinning with their town of San Francisco Libre. In the New Year I hope to visit Clonmel in Ireland to celebrate St Patrick’s Day and our established relationship with them.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish all readers ‘Seasons Greetings and a Happy New Year’.
