This time last week I was still hoping some of the events I planned to attend could go ahead. In the end, as the crisis worsened, I was only able to go to one, but what a smasher it was.
Every year the Black Swan organises an art competition for our young people, aged between 8 and 19. I always make a point of attending and this year was delighted to accept an invitation to be a judge. The depth of quality was truly amazing, and it was a very hard task to select the winners and highly commended, especially as we judges kept a safe distance from each other. However, we made our decisions and, as the gallery has now had to close, please check them out on the Black Swan website www.blackswanarts.org.uk
Last Friday saw the last openings of our pubs and restaurants and I hope they all manage to survive and reopen. Many have changed their ways of working and now offer takeaway and delivery services. I urge all those who can to support them; we will miss them when they are gone.
Similarly, as we cannot visit our theatres and other venues, please consider ‘paying it forward’ and buying gift vouchers for when we can start to visit them again. If you have already bought tickets and can afford not to be immediately refunded, consider leaving the money in the venue’s account and enjoy the performance when it is rescheduled.
The generosity of our residents never ceases to surprise me. Donations to our food bank are still being made and neighbours are looking out for those unable to shop for themselves. The council are reminding everyone of this by erecting banners around the town; please pay heed and let’s all help each other. Good luck and stay well.
