Your Local Independent 196

July 2025 Page 13 AD SALES 01204 478812 WHILE the past month has been a little quieter than the last, it’s certainly been no less rewarding. From civic services to community festivals, it’s been a joy to continue meeting residents, sup- porting local events, and championing the spirit of Horwich and beyond. SATURDAY MAY 31 I HAD the honour of hosting my very own Civic Saturday, beginning with a thought- ful service at Holy Trinity Church. Reverend Nicola But- terworth led a moving reflec- tion on community and the importance of unity in work- ing toward the common good. Afterwards, we gathered at the beautifully renovated Ivy Room at Curley’s Dining Rooms for a civic reception. It was wonderful to welcome fellow local mayors, our MP, councillors, friends, and fam- ily. The team at Curley’s pro- vided exceptional hospitality, with delicious food and first- class service. It was a truly memora- ble day and a brilliant way to officially launch my year as mayor. SUNDAY JUNE 1 THE following day, I had the pleasure of attending the Civic Sunday celebrations 10 11 Monday Tuesday The Mayor’s Diary THE MAYOR’S DIARY CHAMPIONING OUR COMMUNITY SPIRIT VICTORIA RIGBY, the new mayor of Horwich, gives us the latest update on her role as first citizen for the mayor of Blackrod, Councillor Kathryn Grant. The day began with a service at St Katherine’s Church, fol- lowed by a lovely reception at Hawthorn’s. It was a warm and wel- coming occasion, and I look forward to working along- side Cllr Grant throughout the year. SATURDAY JUNE 21 ONE of the highlights of the month, and indeed my year so far, was Horwich Rox. It’s hard to capture just how spe- cial the day was. Thousands of people filled the streets, cre- ating an electric atmosphere. Residents, local businesses, pubs and bars all came together to say it was the best day they’ve had in years – and I couldn’t agree more. This event was particularly meaningful to me, not just as mayor but also as one of the organisers. I’m incredibly proud of the teamwho worked so hard to bring this event to life. The sense of community spirit was truly inspiring, and I can’t wait to see how we build on its success in the future. SUNDAY JUNE 22 THE month concluded with another fantastic commu- nity event – the Community Sports Day at Bolton Arena. It was a morning full of activ- ity, offering everything from gymnastics and tennis to net- ball and my personal favour- ite: pickleball! I got stuck in with as much as I could, whether it was aiming (many times!) for the netball hoop or taking on the climbing wall, not the easiest challenge in a suit and heels, but a fun one nonetheless. To finish the day, I had the honour of opening the Col- our Run on the track. This vibrant, fun-filled race raised an incredible £1,500 for Bol- ton Hospice. It was heartening to see participants of all ages come together to support a great cause, all while being covered head-to-toe in every colour of the rainbow. As always, I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve our wonderful community and be part of such uplift- ing events. Here’s to more memorable moments in the months ahead.