Welcome one and all to my last column as the Mayor of Weymouth, as my term ends later this month. Over the past year, I have met so many wonderful people and attended numerous events, which certainly do lift one’s spirit.
We have recently seen the launch weekend of Portland and Weymouth Towns of Culture take place, and I am looking forward to the events that follow to celebrate everything that makes both towns so special and unique.
It was a privilege to be invited to Tumbledown to officially unveil the new building, named Kestrel Barn. Tumbledown has undergone a marvellous transformation and is a fantastic asset to all in the community. A place where local people who need a bit of help can learn to grow food and cook.
My recent charity fundraising event in aid of The Lantern Trust was a wonderful evening full of fun, music, and laughter, and I was delighted to see so many people join in, whilst raising money for a worthwhile cause. To further support the charity, the Jubilee Clock will light up in purple between 19th and 26th May.
Thursday 8th May marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, which will be commemorated with a service at the Jubilee Clock held by the Weymouth Branch of the Royal British Legion. Following this will be a beacon lighting ceremony hosted by Weymouth Town Council, before the VE Day 80 beacon is lit at 9.30 pm. On Saturday, 10th May, there will be a live music concert on Weymouth Beach, so please do bring your picnics, blankets, and chairs to enjoy the entertainment. The full schedule will be announced soon, so keep your eyes peeled.
Something to really look forward to this month is Weymouth Town Council’s annual Community Expo on Saturday, 17th May at the Jubilee Clock. During the event, you can hear about the work of the Town Council and visit various stalls to gain an insight into the valuable work carried out by local voluntary and community groups. We are also hoping to have community choirs performing, so please do join us anytime between 11 am and 2 pm.
I would like to close by expressing my gratitude to the Weymouth community for embracing me as the Mayor of Weymouth over the last year, It has been a privilege. We have a wonderful town, and I am proud to have served as its Mayor. I hope you have a great summer!
Cllr Jon Orrell
Mayor of Weymouth
