Leek's Mayor, Cllr Bill Cawley, has written about his Civic Sunday event and everything else he has been up to this month in his latest column. Read what he had to say below...

My Civic Sunday event went as well as I could possibly have hoped. Thanks to Denise, Lyn and Matt who played a major role in bringing it all together. A nod also to Rev Nigel and his team as well.

Much of it was planned, but it was accidental things that contributed to the delight. The Jacobite reenactors marching in procession to the church, the last minute tuk tuk transport, all helped. The drummers were splendid, and Mark Johnson's very thoughtful poem played their part magnificently.

I think that the choice of the cricket club as a venue, which was forced on me, in the end turned out to be an inspired choice with even a match being played in the summer sunshine.

Finally, the catering which was a bit of a gamble worked really well and thank you Cultural Zebra who brought a bit of African cuisine to Leek.

I attended the Commonwealth Games Baton 19th July An event that took place in the most trying of circumstances with a merciless sun beating down. A really well-organized event at which the crowds turned out to welcome the baton bearers.

The Young Phoenix Singers were very well received as I said they are a great credit to the town. I think all who participated will take back many memories of a very fulfilling Club Day 9th July.

Again, it was clear on another bright and sunny day that the church community of Leek was glad to be back to reconnect with a tradition that goes back to the early 19th century.

As I was quoted "Leek's faith community will continue to be at the heart of much that is positive in the town about showing by word and deed the basic tenets of Christ's message"

Pensioners' Fair 16th July. I attended this the other Saturday and met with a number of statutory and voluntary organizations who were involved with the welfare of senior citizens of the town. I raised two points during the hour or so I attended the event.

The issue of loneliness in the community which has been exacerbated by the pandemic is one in which Karen Bradley MP has been very much aware and I did touch on the ramifications of the impact of second homes and holiday lets especially in rural communities.

Secondly, the implications for vulnerable people of the projected massive increase in energy bills over winter.

Ability Counts Leek Town Football Club Awards 14th July. This was a wonderful evening and very soul enriching as I was present when awards to players with special needs were handed out at the "Winking Man". It was very much "pastime in good company "

Leek Theatrical Company Show 8th July. I went along to the show in support of Cancer Charities held at Westwood First. Some of the excerpts from the shows were really well done such as "Guys and Dolls", "Sister Act", "Miss Saigon" and particularly the Show stopper "Les Misérables ". Well done all around over £2,500 was raised