Worcester Operatic & Dramatic Society’s Youth Section performance of Footloose
The Mayor and Mayoress will be attending Wody’s performance of Footloose at The Swan Theatre, Worcester
MAYOR’S WEEK 13 – 19 JULY
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.
MAYOR’S WEEK: 6 – 12 JULY
I HAVE always found history fascinating.
As George Santayana said: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Therefore, I was delighted to open the first Worcester Stuart History Festival at the Old Palace—an exciting addition to our city’s cultural life.
The Stuart age was one of revolution, civil war, and profound political change. Worcester stood at its heart, from the first skirmish of the Civil War in 1642 to the decisive Battle of Worcester in 1651.
These events shaped modern Britain and still echo in our politics today. Thanks to the Battle of Worcester Society and The Script Haven, this festival brought that history to life over two days through a series of expert talks including ‘Worcestershire during the Commonwealth’, the Glorious Revolution of 1688 and the life of James 1st who created the role of Mayor of Worcester!
I also reflected on the sacrifice of the past and the service in the present of our armed forces when I visited Crich in Derbyshire with the Mayoress, Councillor Dr Zoe Cookson.
We attended the annual Crich Pilgrimage to honour those who served in the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment and its successors.
Held at the Crich Memorial Tower, the event brings together veterans, families, and civic leaders in remembrance.
Worcester shares a proud bond with the Worcestershire Regiment, now part of the Mercian Regiment. I was honoured to lay a wreath on behalf of our city—an emotional reminder of local sacrifice. Thank you to the organisers for preserving this important tradition and our shared military heritage.
As my mayoral theme is “learning,” reflecting my 28 years in education and my belief that learning is lifelong, I was honoured to join celebrations marking 40 years of Worcester University of the Third Age (U3A) at the Guildhall.
The U3A focusses on older members of our community and embodies that ideal: curiosity, connection, and personal growth well beyond school age. My late father, Tony Lamb, was a proud member—he loved the discussion, geology, and history groups. In an age of loneliness, U3A shows how community and learning can enrich lives. Congratulations on 40 fantastic years—Worcester is stronger, wiser, and more connected thanks to you.
Worcester Operatic & Dramatic Society’s Youth Section rehearsal of Footloose
The Mayor and Mayoress will be attending Wody’s Rehearsal of Footloose