Platinum Jubilee Celebrations – SMPC Chairman’s Thanks
I am sure Mortimer will remember the Platinum Jubilee celebrations for a long time! As Chairman of the Parish Council it is really great to read so many messages of thanks to all involved. Being chairman gave me an overview of the planning which did indeed take more than two years. My direct role was very limited, such as agreeing expenditure and supporting the various ideas put forward by the organising committee. I was one of the annoying people selling lucky draw tickets at the event and late afternoon, when people were going home to refresh, I received so many positive comments – some even bought more tickets in gratitude!
It was great that Mortimer Music Live, Mortimer Village Partnership and Stratfield Mortimer Parish Council worked together in their respective roles to deliver the event. On behalf of the village, I thank all those involved.
First, the organising committee which was superbly led by Simon Beard. Simon worked incredibly hard on the organisation and had a clear vision of what could be achieved. Getting the Lancaster flypast was entirely down to Simon as was booking the fun fairs and advertising. When he first told me about his concept of the procession my immediate thoughts were there’s no way that’s going to happen! But it did. Special thanks to Andy Bell and Eric Howell for their massive contributions to the procession. The committee included Ryan Saunders, Graham Bridgman, Dave Kilshaw, Keeleigh Field, Eric Howell, Andy Bell, Nick Hearn, Adrian Smith, Poppy Smith, Dan Jefcoate, Richard Coles, Jay Sylva, Pete Tomlinson and Jon Ward. I hope I have not missed anybody, if so I’m sorry. I can’t possibly list what everybody did, but I thank you for all your contributions, including those who did the boring bits such as risk assessments and health and safety (thanks Ryan, Andy and Graham).
Second, Mortimer Music Live who arranged and managed all the entertainment and other things as well! MML was led by Ryan Saunders and Dave Kilshaw and I ask them to thank all the members of their team. The experience and knowledge of Ryan, Dave and Graham in running large events was very important. MML also organised the bar and I thank the Burghfield Santas for running the bar.
Third, thanks to Mortimer Village Partnership, led by Doug Overett, who organised all the concessions and all the stalls etc. on Saturday. Please pass on thanks to all involved.
Fourth, thanks to all the volunteers who marshalled the procession and the Fairground. The event could not have happened without you.
Finally, thanks to the SMPC staff (Lynn, Bernise and Frank) for their behind the scene work.
Thank you all.
Mike Dennett,
Chairman, Stratfield Mortimer Parish Council - 7th June 2022