My year in office is rapidly coming to a close, and I will be passing over The Chain and its associated responsibilities to my Deputy, Cllr. Moira McLaughlin.
Having served a year as Deputy, then Mayor, I have met many wonderful people, and visited many fantastic places. I have been to so many functions at the Floral Pavilion, ranging from award presentations, to the Spotlight on Youth concert and pantomime that it feels like my second home!
New Brighton has figured largely in my year of office, 2010/11.
I am pleased to see SS. Peter and Paul’s Church has been re-opened, with Mass served in Latin. This is a huge success for the dedicated band of campaigners who refused to accept the closure of this beautiful church back in 2008. Well done to all concerned.
I have visited as many schools as possible, or hosted their visits to The Mayor’ Parlour. The children are so eager to learn about their home town, and are fiercely proud New Brighton. The future will be in safe hands, I have no doubt!
HRH Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited the Sea Cadet Corps and Royal Marine Cadets at T.S.Astute. She commented on the very high standard of turnout, and the precision of the marching drill.
Another very proud moment was the naming of the Ian Fraser Walk in November 2010. A fitting memorial to one of Wirral’s heroes, and Wallasey’s Victoria Cross holder. It is planned to erect plaques at each end of Ian Fraser Walk, for the benefit of future generations telling how Lt. Commander Fraser won his Victoria Cross in his “X Class” midget submarine in World War 2.
It was an honour for me to meet Ian’s family on such a wonderful occasion.
While I’m on the theme of bravery, I cannot leave out New Brighton’s lifeboat crew and their supporting members. These men and women are the epitome of selfless bravery. When their pagers go off, they all drop what they are doing and get to the lifeboat station as fast as they can. They never know what to expect when they arrive at the rescue point. The only thing that is guaranteed is that they will put themselves in peril for the benefit of others. The New Brighton crew members have won a remarkable 48 awards for gallantry, which speaks for itself. Well done, and Thank You all!
The regeneration of New Brighton is coming along a treat! The hotel, the supermarket and other buildings are coming on in leaps and bounds. They will attract many more visitors to the area, ready to spend their money and boost the economy of the area.
New Brighton Model Boat Club has settled into its new home, and the new boating lake is in full swing, with some spectacular models on display. Even the Swans are back!
I have had the honour of presenting the coveted Green Flag Award to Vale Park twice! Once as Deputy Mayor, and again as Mayor. These particular presentations have been welcome opportunities to sit down and relax in a busy schedule, and listen to a fabulous Brass Band concert. Thanks to everyone concerned for keeping Vale Park in such lovely, award-winning condition, and creating an oasis of tranquillity.
Finally, let me thank the hard working team led by Rusty Keane for giving up their time to produce this fine magazine. New Brighton Walrus really keeps people informed about what is happening in New Brighton, and is a valuable community asset. Keep up the good work.