Strand Quay Christmas tree
Thanks to Rod and Clive from Rastrum for placing the Christmas tree in position along with Tony Heritage, and Heidi and Chris from Martello Developments for supplying the tree. It wouldn’t make such a spectacle if not lit with the wonderful lights powered by the EA, organised by our very own James Bateman, Rye harbour master.
The dressing of the tree was by Robin Dowsing and me.
On Friday, December 2 we had a wonderful lighting ceremony. As mayor I had sent an invitation to Sienna Hollands to be my special guest and to switch on the lights. What a wonderful job Sienna performed, thank you.
Then it was a Christmas tour around Rye, meeting late night Christmas shoppers and those providing street entertainment – which was so well organised by the Christmas in Rye team.
Christmas in Rye
At the Christmas in Rye event on Saturday, December 3, I met Father Christmas arriving by fire engine at the town hall, where plenty of chocolate coins were given to the gathered children. After this, we had a great parade through the town leaving Rope Walk at 5:30pm, then a carol service in the church, taken by our very own rector, Paul White.
Swimming pool
Along with fellow town councillors and other Rye citizens, I attended a meeting at Rother District Council on Monday, November 28 where we heard Freedom Leisure explain their rationale for the ’temporary’ closure of our pool. We were told nothing new and we continue working to reverse the closure decision. I won’t go into detail as it has all been reported already in Rye News but I will endeavour to keep you all informed going forward.
Rye Fund
On Wednesday, November 30, I attended the annual meeting of the Rye Fund award committee, considering applications made this year to disperse the monies available. The results of this meeting will be announced in due course once all concerned have been informed.
St Michael’s Hospice
I was delighted to have been asked to join the hospice in their annual Lights of Love service at St Mary’s Church and read Ephesians 3:14-19. After the service I switched on the illuminations on the Lights of Love tree. Chris Emson and her team then supplied us with enough scones to double our body weights, including Sophie, my mayoress consort for the event.
Father Christmas celebration
Finally, some promotion for the event I am sponsoring on Saturday, December 17 from 6pm to 7pm at the town hall Buttermarket. There will be carols, wine and mince pies, with chocolate gift boxes for children under 12. This will be a free event for local families – I look forward to seeing you there. We are asking for donations on the night that will go towards the mayor’s charity – supporting Ukrainian families.
Image Credits: Kt Bruce , Robin Dowsing .