December saw our Mayor & Mayoress immersed in various festive events, spreading joy and celebrating the vibrant community of Rossendale.
From enchanting Christmas productions to heart-warming charity initiatives, let's delve into the highlights of the Mayor's engagements throughout this season of celebration.
December 1: Olive Branch Fostering's Winter Wonderland
The Mayor & Mayoress commenced December by opening Olive Branch Fostering's Winter Wonderland, a magical space created for foster families and foster children. This event not only highlighted the festive spirit but also emphasised the importance of creating a warm and loving environment for children in need.
December 1: Haslingden Christmas Craft Market & Choir Concert
The Mayor & Mayoress were present at the Haslingden Christmas Craft Market, supporting local artisans and the festivities also continued with the Haslingden Library Choir Concert; featuring the melodious voices of the community, including performances by Haslingden Primary School.
December 3: Immersive Christmas Adventure by Horse & Bamboo
The Mayor & Mayoress embraced the enchantment of the season at Horse & Bamboo's production, "The Squirrel, The Cake, and The Cabinet." This immersive journey through magical lands, animated by puppetry, music, and games, added a touch of wonder to the holiday season.
December 4: East Lancashire Scouts Christmas Experience
At Bowley Campsite, the Mayor & Mayoress joined the East Lancashire Scouts for a Christmas Experience, supporting the scouting community in fostering a sense of camaraderie and adventure during the festive season.
December 7: Rossendale Hospice Light up a Light Service
In a poignant ceremony at St Mary’s Church, Rawtenstall, the Mayor & Mayoress participated in the Rossendale Hospice Light up a Light Service. Supporters gathered to dedicate a light in memory of loved ones, fostering a sense of community and remembrance.
December 9: Valley at Work Rossendale Business Awards
The Mayor and Mayoress celebrated the entrepreneurial spirit of Rossendale at The Ashcroft, Whitworth, during the Annual Valley at Work Rossendale Business Awards. Recognising local businesses and inspiring individuals, this event showcased the Mayor’s commitment to the economic vitality of the community.
December 9: Mayor at Home Christmas Event
Hosting a festive gathering at home, the Mayor and Mayoress welcomed guests and raised money for the Mayor’s Charity Fund. Attendees enjoyed the warmth of the season with mince pies, mulled wine, and engaged in fundraising activities, contributing to the spirit of giving.
December 10: Royal British Legion Annual Christmas Concert
At Gorton Monastery, the Mayor & Mayoress attended the Royal British Legion Annual Christmas Concert, a special festive performance in the Great Nave. This event not only entertained but also honoured the Legion's contributions to the community.
December 11: Whitworth Community Carol Concert
The Mayor & Mayoress, joined the Mayor and Mayoress of Whitworth, alongside other civics to participate in the Whitworth Community Carol Concert, a tradition spanning 25 years. Led by Rev Samuel Hameem, the event brought together the community to celebrate the joy of the season through carols and communal spirit.
December 15: Beacon Dementia & Wellbeing Christmas Party
The Mayor & Mayoress joined the Beacon Dementia & Wellbeing Christmas Party, spreading joy among service users, their friends, families, and carers. This event, dedicated to those facing dementia and isolation, highlighted the Mayor’s commitment to inclusivity and community care.
December 19: BRGS Senior Speech Night
An evening of recognition and celebration; the Mayor & Mayoress attended the BRGS Senior Speech Night held at the grammar school. The event marked the awarding of A-level certificates to past students now at university, showcasing the Mayor’s support for education and achievement.
December 22: Edenfield Carol Concert
Closing in on the festivities, the Mayor & Mayoress attended the Edenfield Carol Concert, an outdoor service, held in the Churchyard, promoting Christmas spirit in the village. Accompanied by a Brass Band, the event brought together the community with carols, mulled wine, and mince pies.
In the true spirit of the season, the Mayor and Mayoress also visited 15 schools across Rossendale throughout December, enjoying various nativity plays and Christmas concerts. We haven’t listed all the schools directly, but be assured the Mayor and Mayoress thoroughly enjoyed every single performance and the direct engagement with the youth of the community during this festive season.
In what was an extremely busy, but delightful month, for the Mayor & Mayoress they managed to celebrate the sentiment and excitement of Christmas via all the wonderful events organised across the borough. Now, after a short amount of time to rest, they welcome all the engagements that the New Year will bring.
