This week has certainly been a bit of a challenge in more ways than one!

A few mayoral events booked in, plus lots going on behind the scenes to help and develop future opportunities across the town.

On Monday evening I visited the ladies choir Caritas Harmony at their rehearsal session where I was given a £1000 donation towards my mayoral fundraising following their Christmas Concert in aid of Dunstable Salvation Army. This will be added to the money I give them at the end of my year.

Being away for work for a couple of days, my deputy stepped in to feel the love in town on Tuesday. Lisa attended the joint event in the Quadrant where roses were the order of the day. Great to see the retailers getting involved in the fun.

On Thursday I took part in a tendering exercise to consider the designs for the soon to be built Multi Use Game Area and refurbished play area at Luton Road Recreation Ground. Along with two others of the working party, Cllr Lisa Bird and Greg George (Cllr’s Kenson Gurney and Phil Crawley did not attend the planned session), it was great to have the feedback of the young people and residents who had taken the time to attend the two public consultations by the Community Services Team. We were able to consider this feedback when we reviewed the designs on Thursday with the potential contractors. Once built it will provide for a whole new play experience.

Thursday evening, I chaired the public meeting for our MP, Andrew Selous. Widely reported on since, it gave opportunity for both residents and the MP and owners to respond to questions and for some clarity to be given around the situation at the Old Palace Lodge. I thank everyone who has sent me messages since the meeting – it was certainly a challenging meeting!

On Saturday I attended the Pride of Houghton Regis Awards night. Some of our Dunstable based businesses supported the event through delivery of services on the night and through sponsorship – well done to Perfect Personalised Parties, Lisa Roberts Catering, Spicer & Co, and Central Bedfordshire College. Really pleased for one of my charities to be a winner on the night – The Disability Resource Centre.

Sundays are becoming Civic Service Days and this week the turn of Stotfold, Cllr Steve Buck, Town Mayor has been a great supporter during my year so only right Lisa and I went along to reflect on his year.