THIS week has been one of great contrasts as the Mayor of Worcester.

I have attended events remembering episodes of great sorrow and tragedy but also attended celebrations of joy and community.

I was honoured to speak at this year’s Srebrenica Memorial Day at the Guildhall. We came together to remember the 8,372 Bosnian Muslim men and boys murdered in July 1995 simply because of who they were.

The genocide in Srebrenica was the darkest chapter of the Bosnian War – a tragedy rooted in hatred, division, and silence.

This year’s theme, “Remember Yesterday, Act Today”, reminds us that remembrance must be active. We must challenge prejudice, educate future generations, and build a city where nobody is dehumanised or left behind.

Worcester is proud of its diversity — let’s protect it with courage and compassion. Never again must truly mean never again.

It was a real joy to open Worcester Carnival 2025 and see our city come alive with colour, music, and community spirit on a beautiful sunny day on Pitchcroft and throughout the city.

This year’s theme, “Myths and Legends,” celebrated the stories that shape Worcester’s identity – from ancient folklore to our rich cultural heritage.

The carnival parade was the highlight of the day – a vibrant, joyful procession of floats, dancers, musicians, and community groups filling the streets with energy, creativity, and pride.

A special congratulations to our Carnival King, Luke Robinson, and Carnival Queen, Beth Smith – two inspiring young people who truly represent the heart of our community through their volunteering and dedication. Worcester Carnival shows what we can achieve when we come together – proud, united, and full of joy.

I was also privileged to visit ASPIE, a remarkable support group for adults with Asperger’s and autism based at Vesta Tilley House in Worcester.

Founded in 2011 by Sarah Micklewright, ASPIE offers a safe, welcoming space where members can connect, rebuild confidence, and feel truly accepted.

From art therapy and drama to quizzes, workshops, and even their own football team – the ASPIE Avengers – there is something for everyone, with no pressure to take part.

It was inspiring to meet such a warm, inclusive community and see the positive impact this group has across the West Midlands. Worcester should be proud to have such a unique and compassionate organisation in our city.

With the Worcestershire County Council elections and all the pre-election restrictions now over, I can blog a final time. I hand over the Mayorship next Tuesday (13 May).

Seven weeks covered in several hundred words, bear with me!

I hosted a Charity Banquet for my super chosen charity, Perdiswell Young People’s Leisure Club.

A fabulous auction, hospitality and raffle prizes were donated from generous local businesses and residents. Thank you all, of which there are too many to name here.

All the entertainment was provided for free. Thank you to the accomplished Charlie Green, the talented Royal Grammar School String Quartet and the adept auctioneer Will Kerton.

Tracey Hopkins your banquet experience was invaluable. Over £7,500 was raised!

At the Guildhall I was able to host a visit for the inspiring charity Headway and open the international Bike Bus Summit.

With new beginnings I opened Building Block Two at Dines Green and B&Q at Blackpole.

At Worcester Cathedral I attended two services and one concert, the Anniversary of Worcester Regiment Drums, the Scouts St George’s Day Service and the VE Day Concert. At Cripplegate Park I attended the Qatia Day Memorial Service.

With visits, I enjoyed time locally with the residents of Francis Court and further afield with the residents of Welland Care Centre which included my now late mum.

For law, I had the privilege of sitting at Crown Court alongside Judge James Burbidge and had lunch with the judges.

For sport I attended the Pitchcroft Park Run, and in the theatre the WODS (Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Youth Society) matinee performance of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.

For education, I enjoyed the Junior Youth Speaks event at Hollymount School

The final highlight, I attended the Royal Garden Party with consort Andy Lee.  The grounds of Buckingham Palace are stunning.

The King and Queen were in attendance. The hospitality was second to none.

Reflection, action and design

The fifth anniversary of the start of the Covid-19 pandemic was marked on Sunday with a day of reflection.

Events were held across the country and on Saturday, at midday, I was able to hold a minutes silence and make a speech from the steps of the Guildhall in Worcester.

People came and reflected and got in touch, before and after the event, to thank me for this.

In the afternoon I spent some time at the Guildhall to celebrate International Women’s Day.  This day has been around for over 100 years, since 1911.

For me this day is very much two-fold.

It is a time to think about the social injustices women have and continue to experience.

Going backwards troubles me most, for example the women and girls in Afghanistan. They had freedoms and now all their human rights have gone.

Also, it was very much a time to think about positive actions, what we can do, for equality for girls and women across the globe.

As Gloria Steinem, the world-renowned feminist, journalist and activist once said ”equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights”.

On a much more local note, I went to Mount Battenhall Retirement Village, known to many of us as the former Convent School, St Mary’s.

I explored the 19th century Grade II listed main building, designed by city clothier William Spriggs. It has been beautifully restored, the architecture and design are truly stunning.

I spent time with residents, and it was fascinating to hear their stories and where they are from.

Living in this retirement village affords the opportunity to easily be part of a community whilst also easy to take time away and be by oneself.

Absolutely, a great way of life.