Your Mayor at Work

The Mayor’s role involves representing the town at events, supporting community initiatives, strengthening partnerships with other councils and organisations, and staying informed about issues that affect local services and projects.

Here is the latest update from the Mayor, following the recent Full Council meeting, sharing a snapshot of recent events, visits and meetings carried out on behalf of the town.

Lido SLICE Championship Event

On 25 January, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor attended the second ever Shaftesbury Lido Ice Championship Extravaganza (SLICE).

“This was a really fantastic event. Swimmers came from all over the country (yes, literally!!) to enjoy our SLICE event and the atmosphere and camaraderie was infectious. I spoke to a swimmer from the Midlands who had come down specially to enter, multiple visitors from Bournemouth, someone else from Wandsworth in London – just amazing! Huge well done to FOSS, our brilliant pool manager Harriet and all the volunteers. You did us proud!”

Salisbury Charter Sunday

On 8 February, the Mayor attended the Annual Charter Sunday hosted by Salisbury City Council, celebrating the 799th anniversary of Salisbury’s market charter. The event took place at the historic Guildhall and included a service at St Thomas’ Church.

“This was a very enjoyable and interesting event, celebrating the 799th anniversary of Salisbury’s market charter. I’ve never been in the Guild Hall before and it is absolutely beautiful. The civic regalia were jaw dropping, as Salisbury has three of the largest maces in the country, and the service at St Thomas’ Church was lovely. Built as the parish church of Salisbury and originally used by the craftsmen building the Cathedral, the interior medieval murals and the original medieval ceilings are something to behold.”

Rotary Club Meeting

On 9 February, the Mayor attended a Rotary Club meeting to give a talk about current Council projects.

“It was lovely to have the opportunity to talk to Rotarians about our projects, how they come about, how they are funded and what it takes to deliver them. I spoke about St James’ Park, the external renovation of the Town Hall and the progress we are making at Mampitts.”

Training and Updates

In addition to public engagements, the Mayor has attended two online talks hosted by the National Association of Local Councils (NALC), covering Asset Management and Funding Beyond the Precept. There was also a Dorset Association of Parish and Town Councils (DAPTC) update on recent changes to the Neighbourhood Plan.
These sessions help ensure the Council remains informed about best practice, funding opportunities and policy developments that may affect the town.