News Article Title Mayor Recognises Three Local Champions and Presents Over £3,000 Between Chosen Charities at Civic Reception
On Friday 17th April, distinguished guests (including a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, The High Sheriff of Berkshire, Vice Chair of West Berkshire Council, Mayor and Mayoress of Newbury), local councillors, charities and other specially invited guests attended the Mayor of Thatcham’s Civic Reception to celebrate her year as Mayor and spread special thanks.
Throughout her year as Mayor, Councillor Petra Pemberton raised £3,136 through various fundraising events including a Barn Dance, Garden Party, Bingo Night, History Talk and Silent Disco.
Cheques of £1,045 were presented to each of the Mayor’s chosen charities, Bridge for Young People, Home Start West Berkshire, and Swings and Smiles.
Mayor’s Awards were presented to Cindy Bunce, Dr Nick Young, and The Bingo Buddies, marking the exceptional contributions made to her and the local community over the last year.
In a speech, the Mayor shared some highlights from her time in the role, including attending the opening of Wessex House with Bridge for Young People in Newbury, the opening of Savers in the Kingsland Centre, being part of Newbury Pride’s Trans Day of Remembrance, taking part in Greener Greenham’s Tree of Hope ceremony, attending Home‑Start West Berkshire’s Open Garden Fundraiser at Englefield House and the Diwali celebration with Community United on Thatcham Broadway, the opening of the new Teenage Den at Swings & Smiles was a fabulous milestone, receiving the beautifully crafted poppies made by Kennet School students for Thatcham Broadway was a proud moment, and joining the High Sheriff of Berkshire for the Mock Trials was an eye-opening experience.
Special thanks were extended to the Mayor’s close family who supported her in attending many of these events, as well as her charitable fundraisers.
The new Mayor of Thatcham will be named at the Mayor Making Ceremony on Sunday 10th May at the Frank Hutchings Community Hall.