They say time goes quickly, and certainly in my capacity as Parish Chairman it has. I have enjoyed the past year and would like to thank my fellow Parish Councillors, District Councillors and County Councillor for all their help, support and advice.
Linked to the above, one of my favourite activities was taking part in the Wombourne Carnival. This year the Carnival is on Sunday 7th July and the theme is ‘Bringing Books to Life’ and I know the Carnival Committee are hard at work planning the day around this theme. Please check out their website www.wombournecarnival.co.uk and their Facebook page both of which will be updated with the events of the day.
Earlier this month, a new dementia singing friends group was launched in Wombourne. Taking place every Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm in the Community Room in Wombourne Library, the sessions are relaxed and informal where people affected by dementia and their carers can get together, have a good chat and a laugh while also singing favourite songs or even having a dance. I wish everyone well in this new venture and trust it is well supported.
A new CASS carers’ café in the Brook Room at the Civic Centre in Wombourne will be opening its doors on Wednesday 13 March 2019, from 10.30am to 12.30pm. If you are looking after a family member or friend, join CASS the Carers Association for information, support and advice at their new Café for Carers. Why not pop in for a cuppa and cake on their launch day. More information about CASS The Carers Association, can be found at www.carersinformation.org.uk
We are very fortunate in Wombourne to have so many volunteer organisations and I look forward to meeting representatives at the annual Civic Dinner on 16th March. I hope you support me in giving a massive ‘thank you’ to everyone in these organisations who give up their time on a regular basis to help the community.
I am sure you will have seen the new Best Kept Village logo on this post popping up in Social Media and in and around the Village. It is great to see so many people starting to turn out for their regular litter picks and larger initiatives around the Village. Wishing this committee all the very best for the Best Kept Village competition again this year.
On a different and sad note, we recently lost a past Councillor, Mrs Betty Gough, who served twice on the Parish Council. In her younger days she appeared in many stage productions around Smethwick & Oldbury, as well as being the supporting singer for her husband’s band. I am told Betty was a great advocate for Wombourne and made an impact during her time on the Parish Council. I would like to pass on the Council’s condolences to Betty’s family & friends at this time.
Finally, a reminder that the Annual Parish Meeting will be held on Wednesday 24th April at the Council Chambers at 7:30pm. As ever we look forward to seeing lots of residents on the night.