It has been a busy and inspiring few weeks across Maidstone and beyond, with events that have truly reflected the spirit, diversity, and kindness of our community.
A super Start at the Theatre
What a wonderful evening at the Hazlitt Theatre for the Sound of Music VIP opening night! It was a fantastic performance full of talent and energy, congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this classic story to life on our local stage.
Honouring Service and Sacrifice
The Poppy Appeal Launch at County Hall was a moving reminder of the importance of remembrance and the incredible work of the Royal British Legion. It is always humbling to see the continued support from our community for veterans and their families.
I also joined the Festival of Remembrance at Rochester Cathedral, a poignant evening of music, reflection and gratitude with some super contributions including from friends musically and a chance to meet other friends and associates of many years. I also received a few compliments myself, for efforts to Veterans and mental health awareness.
This coming Sunday I will be honoured to give a reading and lay a wreath at the Remembrance Sunday Parade and Service starting at the Town Hall, before taking the salute as the parade passes. These moments of unity and remembrance are at the heart of our civic life.
World Stroke Day
I had the pleasure of meeting staff and local groups at Cavell Park Care Home for World Stroke Day. Hearing first-hand about their work to support stroke survivors and their families was inspiring, a reminder of the dedication and compassion that runs through our local care community and so many volunteers that contribute to such work.
Celebrating Diwali – The Festival of Lights
This year’s Maidstone Indian Association Diwali Celebration was truly special. I had the privilege not only the attend but also to join in the drumming band, what a wonderful experience! It was a joyous evening filled with dance, song, delicious food, and friendship. Thank you to everyone who made it such a vibrant celebration, and a very Happy Diwali to all who celebrate.
Celebrating Local History at Penenden Heath
It was a lovely afternoon at Penenden Heath History Garden for the unveiling of the new sculpture. What made it especially memorable were the children from Penenden Heath Pre-School, whose smiles, excitement, and enthusiasm brought the event to life. Their pride in being park of something lasting was heart-warming, a memory they will share for years to come!
A Busy Week Ahead
The next week promises to be equally full and rewarding:
- The All Souls Day Service and Luncheon at the Rochester Bridge Chapel and Chamber. This is a significant historic event that has been part of Kent history for over 500 years, when Maidstone and Rochester were the responsible "agents" for the Medway river and worked with the Kings Dockyard at Chatham and the masters of the Thames, that took on navigation responsibility from Gravesend onwards. (now known as Pilots).
- Ebbsfleet United vs Maidstone United, organised by the Royal British Legion, where I’ll join others in observing a minute’s silence before the game, the 1st Round of the FA Cup.
- The National Fruit Show organised by those for the County Show at Detling Showground but in Marden– including the President’s breakfast and show opening. This has real family connection for me: my father was associated with this and took me to the shows from 1963 and onwards for many years (he always felt I should know about fruit quality and food generally, as a child) but in 1965 : 60 years ago, he asked me to test an apple in a "close tie" for best apple .....I tasted several but all the whole apples! I was only supposed to take a bite!
- The Mayor of Bromley’s Charity Evening at The Warren.
- The Provincial Grand Master’s Charity Awards at The Great Danes Hotel, where I’ll be speaking about my chosen charities.
- And finally, the Young Farmers 80th AGM and Award Evening at the Kent Showground, another of my chosen charities, doing wonderful work with young people in our rural communities.
These past few weeks have truly shown the strength, kindness, and diversity of our community, from theatre and history to remembrance and celebration. I’m so grateful to everyone who makes the Borough of Maidstone such a vibrant and caring place to live.
