It’s been extremely busy for our last week. Joan and I spent a very interesting morning at the Mosque when Malik Fayez explained to us the meaning of Islam and some of the misconceptions about the religion. The similarities with Christianity are amazing; we learnt quite a lot in a short time. The community is trying to obtain larger premises for a mosque so women can be included in worship.

We also visited the Salvation Army Citadel. They do wonderful work and there were a lot of happy people enjoying the hospitality. It was nice to meet the young people from Mencap who were helping to serve coffees. Captain Scott Cuncliffle and his wife are off to Northern Ireland in July. They will surely be missed here.
I must mention John Collard, who had his 100th birthday this week. He still goes walking every day and looks extremely fit. He told a lovely tale of how he only fired his rifle once during the war and that was to kill a pigeon as they were hungry.
Not bad for a tank transporter driver. Happy birthday, John, we enjoyed your party.
The last year has flown by but Joan and I have had a truly wonderful time. The support we have had from all of you has been phenomenal – everything from a huge turnout for the mayor’s abseil to concerts and the opera La Traviata at the Guildhall on Sunday. We have been made very welcome by many organisations – Scouts, Cubs, Guides, Worcester Wheels, Ethnic Access, Association for the Blind, Rotary, Lions International...
Before I sign off, I must mention my two charities, Noah’s Ark Trust and Acorns Children’s Hospice. It has been a great year working with them. The final figure raised will approach £25,000, which is a huge tribute to everyone who has helped and to the generosity of the Worcester public. Thanks must also go to Dave Morgan at the TA, Richard Spalding, Worcester Male Voice Choir, and, of course, Worcester Concert Brass and many others too numerous to mention.
We have so many happy memories of the year, people we have met, friendships we have made, that will last a lifetime. I must also thank Susan O’Kane, the mayor’s PA, Steve Baker the mayor’s officer and all Guildhall and civic staff for their support.
Joan and I have been so proud to be mayor and mayoress and thank you for the privilege. I am sure you will support the next mayor just as well.