To receive such announcements as may be made by the Mayor.
Minutes:
The Mayor :-
(1) Announced that Since taking office on 1 April, she was pleased to report that she had now had the opportunity to visit all the former constituent borough areas (Congleton, Crewe and Nantwich and Macclesfield) and was getting to know her way around the Cheshire East boundaries.
(2) Announced that the first Armed Forces Day had taken place on 27 June 2009 and she was honoured to have had the opportunity to attend the local version of this event, which started, on 22 June, with flag-raising events in Sandbach, Crewe and Macclesfield. She had attended the Crewe event, with the Leader attending at Sandbach and the Deputy Mayor in Macclesfield. This was followed, on Saturday the 27 June, with receptions in the same three towns to mark the contribution of the British Forces in conflicts throughout the world. This date in the calendar each year would be an opportunity for the nation as a whole to show support for men and women who make up the armed forces community, which included not only those who were currently serving and their families, but also the veterans and new recruits. Across the country people had been involved by holding local events and she was honoured to have the opportunity to host the Crewe event, which she felt was both moving and up-lifting and was also a time for reflection.
(3) Announced that, on the Tuesday, 2 June, the Mercian Regiment 1st Battalion (Cheshire), on which the Freedom of the Borough had been conferred, exercised its right to march through the towns of both Congleton and Nantwich with “bayonets fixed and flags flying” The roads were closed during the march, and there was a good turn-out by members of the public for both events.
(4) Announced that she have been humbled by being given the opportunity to meet various volunteers of the Voluntary sector. She considered that the Voluntary sector was vital to the well-being of any community. Despite the proliferation of welfare assistance, the state could not always provide for the needs of all and there would always be gaps in provision. Without the unstinting dedication of those people who choose selflessly to helped others, society would be much poorer. Volunteering could be a two-way experience; not only does it help those who are receiving the services, but it could be very rewarding for the volunteers themselves.
(5) That an early highlight of her year had been attending the Royal Garden Party on Tuesday, 14 July. Along with her Consort and with fellow Councillors she went to London. It was an event where they were able to mix with people from all walks of life; other Mayors, volunteers, business-people, veterans and young people. There were over several thousand people in attendance. The party had been delighted that His Royal Highness Prince Philip chose to come over to speak to them about Cheshire East.
(6) Referred to her Civic Report, which had been circulated at the meeting and stated that, with a large area such as Cheshire East, the Mayoral engagements had, obviously, increased significantly. The range was wide, covering visits to schools, church services, voluntary sector events, open days, and more recently, the Royal Horticultural Show at Tatton Park. There’s hardly a moment to spare, but with the support of her Consort, Maurice and Councillor Baxendale, her Deputy, she was finding it thoroughly rewarding and a wonderful experience.
(7) Reminded Members that the following day was “Dress Down Friday” and that officers would be wearing casual dress and making a contribution to the Mayors’ charities.