MAYOR'S MOMENT: Care and comedy

I have taken the opportunity to spend time preparing some mayoral fundraising events that I will be promoting in the next few weeks.

I did, however, have two engagements this week – the first being to visit the residents, families and staff at Fulford Care and Nursing Home in East Street following the change in ownership and management of the care home that was developed on part of the former Rosemead School site.

I was taken on a tour of the facilities including the charming dining room in the converted barn and met with many of the residents and their families, taking the time to hear their view and opinions on the site and the care facilities provided, with an overall message being that they were all very happy following the changes.

I also got to meet some of the staff, including home manager Karen Harman, who has recently been appointed, and it was great to hear of her enthusiasm and plans for future further improvements.

I wish Karen and the team every success in the future.

The second event of my week was to attend the 65th anniversary dinner dance of the Littlehampton Musical Comedy Society which took place at Vardar Restaurant on Saturday evening.

I have to admit it was with several hats that I attended this event – being on their committee as publicity officer, patron , and married to the chairman – but having officially been formally invited by the organiser it was in the role of mayor that I attended.

It was lovely to see so many past and present members reminiscing over photos and posters of past productions, and swapping and sharing stories, before enjoying a three course meal.

The society was formed in 1951 with its first production being the Arcadians in 1952.

One of the longest standing members in attendance was Judy Porter who was there with her granddaughter, Jade Wadey, who is keeping up the family tradition having recently successfully auditioned for the part of Thomasina the Cat in the society’s forthcoming pantomime Dick Whittington, which takes place in January and will also mark the society’s 150th production!

One past member, Robbie Robinson, even travelled up by motorbike from Somerset especially for the event which was also attended by a number of the society’s vice presidents and life members.

The celebrations ended with a complementary raffle and cutting of an impressive celebratory cake designed and made by society member Janet Smith, featuring the curtains of the Windmill Theatre and stage.

Members went on to enjoy a disco afterwards which was thoroughly enjoyed by all that attended.

I would like to thank them for the hard work that they do and congratulate them on reaching this milestone and wish them every success for the future.

As mentioned, my winter diary is filling up quickly and I would like to attend as much as possible, so please do get in touch as soon as you are able if you would like me to attend one of your events, businesses, groups or organisations.

I can be contacted through the mayor’s office on 01903 732063.

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