A year as mayor
We wanted to know what club member Shelagh Sandle’s year had been like as mayor of Stratford-upon-Avon, so sent her questions to address at the May club meeting. It has, she said, primarily been a humbling experience. She recalled so many people she met ’who wore several hats’, and turned up on different occasions in different capacities, quietly contributing to society in several ways. She noted that those who shout the loudest seem to do the least!
Her two most rewarding experiences were an uplifting service at Coventry Cathedral commemorating those who were killed in the war; and meeting primary school children who sang their own ‘Welcome Mrs Mayor’ and, beaming with enormous pride, presented her with produce they had grown themselves (four carrots, three potatoes and a bunch of herbs). Sheila commented that she was astonished at the truly remarkable musicianship of the many groups of talented young people she met and the variety of music they play.
Shelagh enjoyed the opportunity to learn so much about the people of Stratford and having the opportunity to contribute to the many committees that the mayor is required to attend as an honorary member.
Her chain of office has been a mixed blessing: very heavy, very valuable and highly significant in being part of the regalia that conveys the authority of appointment by the Queen.
So does Stratford need a mayor? Absolutely yes is the answer. Shelagh’s experience has shown her that the mayor is very much a vital link between ‘people on the ground’ -i.e. residents – and authorities such as District and/or County Councils. She noticed that being visited by the mayor gave great pleasure to young and old alike and the presence of this figurehead is always much appreciated.