Visited the charity Eikon and met their inspirational leader Chris Hickford. They do a wonderful job helping Surrey’s vulnerable young people and transforming their lives. I look forward to visiting some of the schools and communities where they work
In Camberley Theatre last evening with the Mayor of Surrey Heath to present well earned Duke of Edinburgh awards. We were entertained by the Gordon’s Pipes and Drums, a great sound in an enclosed space!. Awards won by very impressive young people from Collingwood, Tomlinscote and Gordons schools.
Attended the annual Surrey Youth Focus, Surrey Young Superstars event in Guildford on Sunday. Many congratulations to the Superstars and in particular to the Superstar of the Year, Jasmine Dhaliwal. It was a humbling honour to announce her accolade. Do visit www.surreyyouthfocus.org.uk.
Was invited to attend the ceremony for the appointment of the new Mayor of Guildford, Councillor Nigel Manning. An impressive event in the Guildhall, all steeped in history and tradition. I wish Nigel and his Mayoress Councillor Marsha Moseley all success in their year.
With my fellow Watts Gallery Trustees I yesterday visited the proposed site of the sculpture Physical Energy in a stunning location beside the A3 . The casting its in progress and once in place it will truly be a Beacon for Surrey.
Have you seen the wisteria growing up to 100 feet on trees at Wisley? We did today, an amazing sight well away from the crowds, on a bank holiday Monday at Wisley.
Did you know Chinese wisteria grows anti-clockwise, Japanese clockwise?
Wisley gardens, another “Jewel of Surrey”.
I visited Waverley Abbey yesterday. What an inspiring place. The original Abbey was built in 1128 when the High Sheriff of Surrey was someone called Fulk, nephew of Gilbert the Knight who had been High Sheriff from 1106 to 1125. We must assume Full and his successors had been regular visitors to this site until the Reformation.
What is left of the Abbey is very atmospheric in a glorious location next to the river. Definitely one of the “Jewels of Surrey”. I hope to highlight more “Jewels” in the months ahead to celebrate what is great about living in Surrey.
Last Wednesday evening, Patricia and I attended a Watts gallery “Art for All” event at the House of Barnabas in Soho when Dr Helen Bowcock presented her report on the social impact of the Watts Gallery. A terrific review of all that goes on the the Gallery of transforming lives through art- encompassing children, youth, the unemployed, the homeless, the disabled and those in Surrey prisons, adult learning and many other groups. Really inspiring and worthwhile.
The other speaker was John Nickson, known to both Patricia and I, author of Our Common Good. A brilliant analysis of how philanthropy can and should fill the gaps left by the decline in state funding. I recommend you read the book!
Last Sunday the 23rd April I and my wife, Patrica, were invited to attend the Honorary Freedom of the Borough of Woking Parade for the Army Training Centre at Pirbright. Lots of soldiers marched past to the sound of a splendid military band, with the salute being taken by the Mayor of Woking and the lord Lieutenant, and I was standing beside them in my full uniform complete with sword.
Last Friday April 21st I was installed as High Sheriff of Surrey 2017/18. This was a formal ceremony with a congregation of around 200 as part of an Evensong Service in Guildford Cathedral. I read a long Declaration which included the words “I will truly and diligently execute the good laws and statutes of this realm, and in all things well and truly behave myself in my office for the honour of the Queen and the good of her subjects”. This Declaration was witnessed by a High Court Judge and then the previous High Sheriff Richard Whittington passed me the Badge of Office. Richard kindly hosted a reception after the service to celebrate the occasion.