The mayor of Shildon, Trish Pemberton, would like to thank everyone who went along to the Valentine themed Civic Ball held at Shildon Civic Hall on Saturday 18th February, including local people and mayors from around the area.
Over £800 was raised on the night, thanks to everyone’s generosity and kindness, with matched funding adding another £500.
During the year the mayor has organised a number of civic events – for example, during the Flying Scotsman’s visit to Locomotion, when a brass band performed in Timothy Hackworth Park and, in October, a Family Fun Day at Locomotion to celebrate the 191st birthday of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, attended by over 3,000 local people.
“The Valentine’s Ball was the last major fundraiser of the mayoral year, so it was great to see so much money raised with the help of so many people.
“This kind of support is what makes it such an honour and pleasure to serve as Shildon’s mayor,” said Cllr Pemberton. “I would also like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to the many companies and individuals who donated prizes for the auction, raffle and tombola, including Hewitts solicitors of Bishop Auckland who are long-term supporters of the NSPCC.
“Lloyd’s Bank provided matched funding of £500 and help on the night. All of this was very much appreciated as it helped to make the fund- raising, the purpose of the event, so successful on the night.
“Olga Bainbridge, BEM, acted as Mistress of Ceremonies and made sure everything ran smoothly with the assistance of several members of her family. Grace was said by Rev. David Tomlinson.”
The mayor’s consort, John Wilson, took the photographs, some of which will soon be up on the about-to-be relaunched Shildon Town Council website.
Councillor Henry Nicholson entertained the crowd while running the auction, raising nearly £200 from a Middlesbrough FC signed shirt, two tickets for a Sunderland FC game, a meal for two at the Manor House Hotel, a hedge trimmer (courtesy of Husqvarna) and a floor lamp (provided by Homebase).
Entertainment on the night was provided by singer Chris Dakers, magician Joseph Bainbridge and cabaret artist, Hollywood. The last revellers reluctantly left towards midnight.
“Finally,” said the mayor, “a very big thank you must go to the staff of the Town Council and the Civic Hall, for their help in organising this and other events during the past year, and on this occasion, for providing a beautiful setting for sharing some lovely food and friendship.”
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
