Mayor of Wellingborough 17th May 2023 - 22nd May 2024, Councillor Valerie Anslow
Visit to Lancome House, 12th September 2023
“I had the pleasure of meeting Avis, who celebrated her 104 birthday at Lancum House in Wellingborough. She was born in Finedon in 1919 and has lived in the county all her life.
Is she Wellingborough’s oldest resident?”
August 2023
“August is holiday time for school children which meant I was involved in opening and closing the beach on many occasions during the month, as well as taking the heritage bus to the Splash Park with my grandchildren.
Chester House hosted the Air Ambulance Fundraising Day. What a fantastic life saving charity this is operating over four counties including Northamptonshire. The event was an opportunity for me to sign up to their weekly lottery, see the helicopter up close and meet some of the amazing volunteers.
Teamwork Trust which is based in Wellingborough provides meaningful training and social activities for adults with learning difficulties. The trust are always looking for companies willing to work with them. The members have been busy making crisp packet blankets to use at the Daylight Centre Big Sleep Out.
Wellingborough Street Pastors do a wonderful job helping to keep people safe on a night out in the town. Two new pastors were commissioned and will be joining the dedicated team on Friday and Saturday nights.
The historic URC building on High Street has installed automatic glass door and accessibility ramp. I was very pleased to be asked to cut the ribbon on these improvements which show that the church is open and welcoming to all.”
29th July 2023
“29th July was exceptionally busy with the Town Council’s Disability Pride event, WACA’s Relaunch and the OG’s Community Festival.
In the town centre, Wellingborough Town Council hosted the first Disability Pride event in Northamptonshire. This was the mastermind of Stephen Linely who is a wheelchair user and keen to raise awareness of the accessibility issues. It was great to see so many groups represented at this event, which will be built on for future years.
At the Rock Street Centre, Wellingborough Afro-Caribbean Association (WACA) was relaunched with a day filled with activities for people of all ages. As a member of WACA, I was pleased to meet the trustees who are keen to develop the work they do within the community and I fully endorse their vision.
At Park House Care Home, I met with staff, residents and their families at their Summer Fete. The weather meant that the activities were held inside but that did not stop some residents being able to join in the dancing.
The last event was at the OG’s Memorial Field on Sywell Road, where the Wellingborough Community Event was taking place amid the football and cricket matches. I was encouraged to dress up as a Viking with the re-enactment group, and then have my first archery lesson with Wellingborough Archery who have a dedicated space at the Memorial Ground.
Wellingborough is buzzing and the Memorial Ground is a hive of activity.”
Mayor's Charity Quiz Night, 28th July 2023
The Mayor held her first Charity event to raise money for her chosen charities for the year, All Hallows Bell and Twinkling Stars Appeal.
Over 80 attended and had a great time at the quiz and bingo evening. Over £700 was raised.
15th - 18th July 2023
The Mayor was busy this July visiting many organisations including the Interfaith’s AGM, Dukes Court and Northants Carers.
“As a committed Christian and a member of Wellingborough Interfaith Group, I was pleased to attend their AGM held at the Victoria Centre. Interfaith dialogue is an important way of dispelling misconceptions and prejudice.
Northants Carers are based in Wellingborough and has supported carers of all ages for the past 30 years. I attended one of their many drop-in cafes for carers and friends of carers, met the trustees and CEO. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people in the county are carers for friends and family. Northants Carers provide the advice and support they often need.
Many people are cared for by family members, but sometimes this is not possible, especially when specialist care is required. Dukes Court Care Home does just that and in a professional way as demonstrated at the Summer Fete that I visited.”
Nadia from Northamptonshire Carers said
“Thank you very much for visiting the Carers, Staff and Trustees at Northamptonshire Carers today. The Carers were so happy to meet you at their Carers Café. Thank you for taking the time to talk to everyone and hear their stories.
Everyone said what a lovely afternoon it was, and were very interested to hear about your work in the town.
I was delighted to welcome you to an organisation which I am so happy to support. I wish you well for your Mayoral Year.”
Saturday 25th June 2023
The Mayor raised and lowered the flag and visited stalls on Market Square for Armed Forces Day.
“Armed Forces Day and raising the flag to remember those who have, are and will serve in our armed forces. A time to remember those traumatised by the action they saw and ensure support and housing is available.”
Saturday 17th June 2023
The Mayor was invited to various events this weekend.
“Wellingborough was building communities on Saturday with fetes and fairs across the town from The Avenue School to All Hallows church, St Marks church to WACA.”
Continental Market, 14th - 17th June 2023
The Mayor popped by to the continental market that was in town and visited an array of food, crafts and goods stalls.
“Market Street Wellingborough was buzzing on Saturday when I visited the stall holders.
Without exception they said what a friendly town we are.
I enjoyed eating the noodles, the macaroons and the turkish delight and look forward to seeing the stall holders again in the Autumn.”
When Robins appear, at Chester House, Friday 16th June 2023
The Mayor was invited to come along to the unveiling of the Robins appear when loved ones are near in-memory art installation at Chester House. It was the first event celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Cransley Hospice in 2023.
“It was a pleasure to meet artist who created the installation of 500 clay robin birdfeeders at Chester House.
Each birdfeeder has been brought by someone who has needed the care and attention of Cransley Hospice, which is celebrating 25years.
The robin was chosen to symbolize the saying – ” Robins appear when loved ones are near”, which can be a comfort to those who mourn a loved one.”
Matilda Jr, 11th June 2023
The Mayor went to see the production of Matilda Jr at Glamis Hall.
“The wonderful, talented cast and crew of GLJ Theatre who performed “Matilda” at Glamis Hall.
I was mesmerised by the chocolate cake eating scene and found myself smiling all the way through.
Another example of the amazing actors we have in Wellingborough.”
Habeau Corpus, 8th June 2023
The Mayor attended the performance of Habeas Corpus at the Castle Theatre.
“Never before have so many trousers been dropped in the cause of comedy as Alan Bennett’s witty writing with serious undertones had the audience in The Studio laughing out loud.
The Hired Man, 26th May 2023
“I have always enjoyed watching the local Operatic Society, now known as Wellingborough Musical Theatre Society, and this production was entertaining and thought-provoking. The cast and crew are a wonderful example of the talent we have in the town.
Surprised by the way the church building was utilized for this poignant story, but not surprised that Wellingborough has the talent.
Past Mayor and Consort Badge Presentation, 17th May 2023
Councillor Valerie Anslow presented Councillor Jon Ekins and Mrs Jackie Ekins with their past mayor and past consort badges at the Full Council meeting on 17th May 2023.
Mayor of Wellingborough 18th May 2022 - 17th May 2023, Councillor Jonathan Ekins
Message from Croyland Nursery
Croyland Nusery School sent a picture of a new swing that they had purchased from the donation that was kindly raised by Councillor Ekins.
It was purchased in order to support one child in particular who has severe learning difficulties.
The Community Engagement Lead for the Nursery said:
“They absolutely love it, but it has also been so popular with all the children who have learnt such valuable physical and PSED (personal, social and emotional development) skills using it.
Thanks so much to you all.”
My Charity Donation
The Mayor of Wellingborough was delighted that Standout Northamptonshire and Croyland Nursery, his chosen charities for the Mayoral term, were able to attend the a Meeting on 17th May 2023, as he was able to present them with a cheque for £516.10 each.
This amazing amount of money was raised through kind donations and events he had held during the year.
Events included a Civic Service, a Quiz Night and a raffle stall at the Christmas Market.
Treasurer, Graham Goss, received the donation on behalf of Standout Northamptonshire, and Paula Stafford Community Engagement Lead received the donation on behalf of Croyland School.
Meeting the Wilby and Great Doddington Beavers
On 14th March, the Deputy Mayor welcomed the Beavers and their leaders to the Council Chamber and held a Council meeting to discuss and debate local issues.
They were excited to try on all the Junior Robes, hat and gloves to transform themselves into a Mayor.
Cllr Anslow began the meeting with nominations of candidates to be Mayor and Deputy Mayor for the evening and chair the meeting.
Discussions took place on children eating sweets and if the town should have less cars and buses and more cycle and foot paths.
The clerk took Minutes Of The Meeting Held On 14th March 2023, Wilby and Great Doddington Beavers.
The Mayor's Civic Service, 12th February 2023
The Mayor visiting Lancum House, 16th January 2023
The Mayor visited Lancum House
It was a great celebration time for Lancum House.
We pass on our thanks to the Mayor for attending today. The staff and residents all loved seeing him there.
Revealing the Queen's Jubilee Bench, 30th November 2022
The Mayor led councillors, staff and members of the public to Swanspool Gardens where the Town Council had installed a bench to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
He thanked the Queen for her 70 years as Monach and removed the velvet cover to reveal the bench.
Tree Planting, 30th November 2022
The Mayor was joined by the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant at the Town Tree planting Event.
They both planted the Oak tree to commemorate the new King, Charles III.
The Mayor then went on to help plant 30 Rowan Trees in a copse area in memoriam of the late Queen Elizabeth II.
All trees planted co-insided with the Queen’s Green Canopy scheme run by the Queen before her passing as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Mayor attending Remembrance Sunday, 13th November 2022
The service was led by The Reverend Canon Paula York, Branch Chaplain of the Royal British Legion, Vicar of All Hallows Church and a Representative of Ukrainian community in Wellingborough.
Many including the Lord Lieutenant of Northamptonshire, The Mayor and Chelsea Pensioner laid a wreath by the Memorial.
The Mayor Judged our first Guy Competition, 3rd November 2022
Wellingborough Town Council held their first Make Your Own Guy competition with some fantastic entries from local groups and organisations.
Guys and Winners
Mayor attending BBC's Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge, 21st October 2022
The Mayor went along to cheer Tabitha on her mamouth journey from Wellingborough School to Silverstone on Friday.
Along with the BBC news crew, Matt Baker and Tabitha were joined by The Mayor, Cllr Jon Ekins, who was at the starting point telling everyone to “Donate, Donate, Donate!” The Deputy Mayor, Cllr Valerie Anslow and the Leader of the Council, Cllr Graham Lawman, were also present cheering them on as she peddled through the school grounds out onto the roads of Wellingborough.
Mayor attending Lilycuddles Launch, 2nd September 2022
Message from Lillycuddles:
“I just wanted to thank you and the Mayor for his attendance at the Lilycuddles launch on Friday.”
Mayor of Wellingborough, Cllr Jon Ekins, said: “I am delighted to declare the Lilycuddles store officially open. Wellingborough, and indeed Northamptonshire, has needed a place like this for some time now. I really hope lots of families come and visit the store and take advantage of the fact they can actually feel and try out these baby products in person rather than having to order them online.
“I wish Solomon and Yetunde the best of luck with this new venture in our town.”
Deputy Mayor attending Room 46 performance, 11th August 2022
This uplifting musical spotlighted the impact Covid had on a group of teenagers, and how social media and group chat helped them get through the turbulent time. I was delighted to meet the six actors after the show, two of whom live and study in Wellingborough.
Message from Danielle:
Wow!! What a totally fantastic evening that was!! The cast did us proud and deserved their standing ovation! It was made more special with the company of Deputy Mayor Cllr Valerie Anslow. Please can you pass a personal message of thanks across to her for giving us her time and for how positive and enthusiastic she was about the company and cast. She is just great!
Deputy Mayor attending the ground breaking event for Glenvale Park Primary School, 17th August 2022
Cllr Valerie Anslow, Deputy Mayor of Wellingborough, performed the ground breaking task at the Glenvale Park development, which is being built to the north of the town.
As well as the schools, a community centre and children’s play area will also be on the site being masterminded by Glenvale Park LLP.
(extract from Northants telegraph New schools for Wellingborough as construction gets under way | Northamptonshire Telegraph (northantstelegraph.co.uk)
Deputy Mayor attending the Raksha Bandhan Celebrations, 2nd August 2022
The Deputy Mayor enjoyed being a part of the Raksha Bandhan Celebrations.
Raksha Bandhan, colloquially known as Rakhi, is an age-old Hindu festival that celebrates brotherhood and love. For the Hindus serving in the Armed Forces, the festival holds special significance as it symbolises the duty of the Armed Forces in protecting their society.
Deputy Mayor attending a sweet shop opening, 20th July 2022
The Deputy Mayor was delighted to be able to open the new Sweet Shop on Alexander Road, Lovely Sweet and Chat.
Deputy Mayor Attending the University of Northampton, 30th June 2022
Past Mayor and Consort Badge Presentation, 15th June 2022
Councillor Jon Ekins presented Councillor Lora and Councillor Graham Lawman with their past mayor and past consort badges at the Full Council meeting on 15th June.
Jubilee Celebrations at The Hindu Community Centre, 5th June 2022
Jubilee Celebrations at Croyland Park, WTC Big Lunch event, 5th June 2022
Despite the cold and drizzle, the Mayor opened the Town Council’s Big Lunch event to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Picnic tables were full, children and adults played with the giant games and rode on the ride, enjoyed the Rock Choir and Neil Richardson’s entertainment, and a delighted resident, Guosne, won the hat competition whilst the dogs strutted their stuff in the arena for the dog show with the Northamptonshire Dachshunds group.
Jubilee Celebrations at The Library, 4th June 2022
On Saturday 4th June, the Mayor attended the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations with Wellingborough Library.
Cllr Ekins was delighted to announce the winners of the Scarecrow and Hat competition.
“We would like to say thank you very much to Mayor Ekins for attending our Jubilee celebrations on Saturday 4th June at the library. We had a lovely time and the winners of the scarecrow festival and hat parade were so pleased to be presented with their prizes by the mayor.”
Planting a tree for the Jubilee, 28th May 2022
The Mayor was invited to come and plant a tree for the Jubilee.
Mr Samant was delighted that he could do the honours.
Mayor of Wellingborough 19th May 2021 - 18th May 2022, Councillor Lora Lawman
My Charity Donation
The Mayor of Wellingborough was delighted that Teamwork Trust, her chosen charity for the Mayoral term, were able to attend the Annual Town Meeting on 4th May 2022, as she was able to present them with a cheque for £1,677.70.
This amazing amount of money was raised through kind donations and events she held during the year.
Events included a Civic Service, Gala Dinner and a Quiz Night.
Honorary Woman Award - 4 May 2022
The Mayor was delighted to be able to present Anita Neil OLY Wellingborough Town Council’s first Honorary Woman Award for 2022.
This prestigious award being given to Anita Neil OLY, a retired British international sprinter born in Wellingborough.
Wellingborough Town Council Spring Clean, 26th March 2022
We held a town centre clean-up where I swept steps outside the pagoda, the Welli Wombles supporting with their cheerful team in a town centre litter pick. Sad that we need to do that, but some people just drop biscuit packets, cigarette ends (by far the most), drinks cans etc, rather than putting them into the provided bins. It made it worthwhile to see people sitting down on the clean steps, to watch the dinosaur show!
Mayor's Gala Dinner, 11th March 2022
International Women's Day 2022 - #BreakTheBias
On 8 March 2022, we celebrate International Women’s Day, a global day celebrating women’s social, economic, cultural, and political achievements.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is Break The Bias. It refers to deliberate and unconscious biases that make it difficult for women to move ahead and encourage action on behalf of organisations and individuals to level the playing field.
Today we interviewed Councillor Lora Lawman, the Mayor of Wellingborough Town Council, to find out who she is inspired by and what it means to be a woman in local government.
If you would like any further information on International Women’s Day, please head to their website.
Let’s all play the part to help forge positive visibility of women and celebrate their achievements and create a gender equal world.
#BreakTheBias
Visit to HMP Five Wells
Dear Madam Mayor,
As you may be aware, the Ministry of Justice is committed to delivering 20,000 additional
prison places by the mid 2020’s- as part of our prison building programme. HMP Five Wells,
in Wellingborough, is the first of six new prisons to be built and will deliver around 1,700
resettlement places for category C adult men. The prison is the first of its design to be built,
with a focus on rehabilitation in order to reduce re-offending and cut crime.
I am delighted to inform you that HMP Five Wells has now been officially opened by the Lord
Chancellor, Secretary of State for Justice and Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab,
following the arrival of its first prisoners on 4 February. The main contractor for HMP Five
Wells was Kier, who were able to successfully navigate the challenges of delivering the build
on time during the pandemic. G4S, as the prison operator, has worked very closely with Kier,
MoJ, and HMPPS to ensure the prison is ready to open on time.
G4S are already working to ensure that the close working relationships we have built with
the local community and stakeholders in Wellingborough and Northamptonshire continue to
grow as the prison becomes operational and plays its part in the local community.
I would like to thank you for the support you have shown the project since it began which has
been vital in ensuring the new prison is a success, and that it benefits the local community
while providing additional safe, secure, modern and decent prison places.
Yours sincerely,
Robin Seaton
Senior Responsible Owner, New Prisons
Mayor's Civic Service 6th February 2022
Animal Encounters - 22 Jan 2022
Donation for the Mayor's Charity
The Mayor was very pleased to receive a kind donation for her chosen charity Teamworks Trust.
Christmas Carol Concert - 11th December 2021
