The Mayor gave the following outgoing speech.

‘It has certainly been a privilege and honour to fulfil the role of Mayor of the County Borough of Bridgend

Before I summarise this remarkable journey, I would like to tell you of an incredible event that was held here in the Council Chamber.

On the 14 April we held an adoptions ceremony in the Civic Offices. An event that ended an adoption process for special young people.

We can all recognise that the Councils Social Services Directorate has been under the spotlight recently, perhaps for some wrong reasons, but this event just illustrates the ongoing incredible work that is undertaken to support young children who perhaps have not had the best start in life.

Seven individual families visited the Council Chamber. Proud extended families who it was a pleasure to meet. The love and adoration shown to the children was palpable and watching them run around the Chamber, some of which sat in the Mayor’s chair wearing the Mayoral chain with pride and  making good use of this wooden gravel hammer was a joy to watch.

I have no hesitation in admitting that on some occasions whilst conducting the official business of the event I had difficulty in managing my own emotions.

Could I thank all those who were involved in this incredible event, especially our Director Clare Marchant and Cabinet Member / Deputy Leader Councillor Jane Gebbie, you have certainly made a difference, so congratulations to all.

It has been an incredible year. Being able to attend so many events both within the County Borough and beyond has been wonderful. Can I thank all those for inviting me to your special occasions?

From community events to schools and colleges, charitable events, to evening concerts and many award ceremonies. I was always greeted with politeness and appreciation.

If there is one message, I can convey to others is that this County Borough is enriched with incredible people who are both Proud and Positive. All to often the news / media concentrate on the negative aspects of modern life.

Perhaps, just perhaps, they could get out into communities and meet these incredible people who make a positive contribution to society. People who do not seek reward or recognition but get on with daily life to support others.

Our Annual Mayoral Awards process clearly identifies this positivity.

So, members continue to make those nominations, every ward, every town has that community champion.

The passing of Queen Elizabeth II was sudden and unexpected. A sad and solemn period for us all.

Bridgend County Borough like all other areas across the Commonwealth was in a state of mourning. I attended many church and cathedral services and witnessed at first hand the community respect that was shown to the late sovereign.

To read the proclamation to announce the passing of the longest reigning Monarch and to commence the beginning of the reign of a new King, King Charles III was an honour.

Representation from Town and Community  ...  view the full minutes text for item 127