Mayor of St Neots — December round-up

This month has been an exciting mix of over 35 meetings, shows, pantos, concerts, and civic events — the usual busy schedule you’d expect for mayors across the country.

The St Neots Choral Society invited me to their annual autumn concert at the church in Eaton Socon. This is the third time I’ve attended one of their performances, and each time they surpass the last. This season’s choice of Handel’s Judas Maccabaeus was absolutely stunning. If you get the chance, I’d highly recommend booking for their next performance in April: Stainer’s The Crucifixion.

The mayor with conductor (left) Reg Searle and the lead singers

I was interviewed on Dotty’s morning show on BBC Radio Cambridgeshire to discuss the very important question of whether St Neots’ Christmas tree is wonkier than the one in the Fenland town of March. Naturally, St Neots took the title — we’re clearly champions in the wonky tree category.

I attended the Mayor of Huntingdon’s Charity Dinner to support his chosen causes. It was a fantastic evening with dozens of mayors, former mayors, civic leaders, and even some celebrities. The highlight was an exciting auction, with one very sought-after item fetching £1,000.

The next show the Mayoress and I enjoyed was A Midwinter Night’s Dream, organized by Riverside Theatre and held again at Eaton Socon Church. It was hugely entertaining and superbly acted. One young performer who intentionally sang off-key for her role impressed everyone — I’m told she has an incredible voice. What talent to pull that off.

The mayor with performers from Riverside Theatre on stage at A Midwinter Night’s Dream

The following week, we were back at the same church for the Mayor’s Carol Concert, this time in Christmas jumpers. This annual tradition is always a joy, and I was thrilled to experience it as Mayor after attending last year as Deputy. The children from local junior schools sang beautifully, moving many proud parents — and even a few teary-eyed audience members.

I had the chance to visit St Neots’ new escape room last week. Luckily, our team managed to get out in time — and avoided being dragon food. We made it with just 30 seconds to spare, with only minimal hints from the team at The Escape House.

The mayor with co-founder of The Escape House

I also popped into the Hunts Volunteer Centre Christmas party, where I had the pleasure of chatting with their amazing volunteer drivers and some of the residents they assist. It’s a brilliant service run by Shona and her team, and one that the council hopes to use in the future to support some of our less-able councillors.

The mayor with some of the volunteer drivers from Hunts Volunteer Centre

A real highlight of the month was awarding two remarkable individuals the honorary title of Freedom of the Town of St Neots. This is the highest recognition our council can bestow, reflecting the profound impact these individuals have had on our community. Reginald Searle was honoured for leading the Choral Society and Sinfonia for over 50 years, and Roger Pitt for running the St Neots Folk Club and Festival for more than four decades. I also made a special mention of Roger’s late wife, Patti, who would have been proudly by his side. Both honourees have brought culture, entertainment, and joy to our town.

The final event of the month was Peter Panto, Adult Adventures by Pocket Productions. This cheeky, adult-themed pantomime was fast-paced, hilarious, and a true crowd-pleaser. It was thoroughly enjoyable and a brilliant way to end a busy month.

The mayor with the cast from Pocket Productions on stage at Peter Panto

Back in May, when I chose local theatre groups as my mayoral charities, I never imagined I’d get to attend every one of their shows. I’m delighted to say I’ve done just that, and the ambition, talent, and creativity of these groups continue to amaze me. I’m looking forward to attended the shows in 2025.