31st July - Mayor of Poole Picks a Winner!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, drew the winning tickets for the Wilts & Dorset Bus Draw at Poole Bus Station.
The draw is free to customers using Wilts & Dorset buses, and is entered on the m1 and m2 routes. It will continue to be run on a monthly basis. The lucky winner of the first £1000 prize was Mrs Marion Hockley of Christchurch, followed by five runner-up prizes of £200 each, won by passengers living in Broadstone, Parkstone, Bournemouth and Highcliffe, and a Polish Student.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said, "I'm going to take a bus journey so I can enter, it seems an excellent opportunity to patronize our bus service provision in Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch and stand the chance of winning a little windfall. I was really pleased that the names drawn were equally dispersed within the conurbation and age groups, a great idea and a really big prize for all the lucky winners."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Wilts & Dorset Managing Director Alex Carter and Marketing Manager Chris Harris at Poole Bus Station.
29th July - Mayor of Poole Swings Through a Summer Night
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, attended a Poole and Parkstone Productions ‘Music on a Summer's Night' concert at the Lighthouse in Poole. The Mayor and her Consort were treated to cavalcade of songs old and new, from classic to rock, and all brilliantly performed. The P& P Players were formed eight years ago and include Drama, Dance and Vocal Artists some attaining all three skills!
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "It was great fun, we toe-tapped and foot-swung our way through song after song, joining in when a favourite came our way and cheering loudly after each set piece. There are such a variety of arts that can be studied and enjoyed as a member of the P&P Players. One small glitch to the evening was that a member of the choir had been present at the previous week's Canford Chase ‘reality cruise' and had first hand knowledge of my singing qualities; suffice it to say I was not asked for a encore at the P&P Players concert!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, on stage with the singers at Poole and Parkstone Productions' concert.
28th July - Mayor of Poole Sings For Her Supper
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, attended a Charity Gala Dinner at Canford Chase Care Home in Branksome Park.
The dinner was the culmination of a week's ‘reality cruise' for residents of the home, in which they ‘visited' France, Spain and Italy during the week enjoying the foods and cultures of each country. The Hawaiian Charity Gala Dinner was the celebration of the end of the voyage and had a ‘marine blue' theme. Everyone was encouraged to wear full long evening dress reminiscent of the past cruise liners of the age. The event raised £700 for Poole Youth Cancer Trust who provide holidays for children in Poole who are suffering from Cancer.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The company was very fine, the food was delicious and the ambience very naval with the Captain in full Officers ‘whites' obviously unaware of the danger of being in uniform and sitting next to me! We were entertained by a super vocalist who sang songs old and new. On being presented with a gorgeous bouquet of flowers I suggested that I sing for my supper, astoundingly everyone thought that was a fabulous idea and I found myself singing my old favorite Edelweiss, in which everyone to a man joined in and made my evening very special indeed."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, and Consort Mr David Butt, with the Captain at Canford Chase Gala Dinner.
28th July - Mayor of Poole Powers Down
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, opened a new Branksome showroom of Save Energy UK Ltd. Much to the delight and surprise of their hosts, Judy turned up in full ‘sparkling blue' evening dress, as her next engagement did not allow any time to change.
This company, owned by Steve and Paul Randall, operates as an energy consultant and contractor for a number of housing authorities and large companies as well as private residents, and can advise on and supply/install a range of energy-saving devices, from conventional wall and hot water tank insulation to high-tech solar panels and micro-energy generators, and low-cost energy suppliers.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "With British Gas just announcing another price increase in September of 15% after a Spring increase of over 20%, everyone is going to have to be more smart in how they obtain their energy provision. I was intrigued to hear of how alternative sources of power have increased and are no longer reliant on obsolescent technology. The relative cost of alternative clean energy provision is beginning to decrease as more and more members of our community adopt newer methods. However, I am most concerned regarding the ever increasing energy prices and the ability of our local communities to pay, hopefully this new outlet will provide an alternative!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with owners Steve and Paul Randall at Save Energy UK Ltd.
28th July - Mayor of Poole Comes Down with a Bump!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt and supporting Councillors, was delighted to open a long-awaited new 30-metre skateboard and BMX ramp at the Fleetsbridge Skateboard Park.
The Mayor, who is also Ward Councillor for this area, with her Ward colleagues Cllrs John Rampton and Les Burden, have campaigned for many years for this new facility and have finally succeeded. The opening was attended by about 60 young people using the new facilities, with a number of Council officers and parents. The Mayor could not resist trying out the new ramp, but found that this was one skill that had eluded her.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "‘Help me get off of this contraption!' amongst other cries for help! I have no idea how our young folk stay on these things when they are static let along when they are mobile. I witnessed such hair-raising skills on the ramps by our youngsters but all within excellent safety limits as provided by GBH the company who supplied, made and installed the equipment. The facility is nestled under the flyover at Fleets Bridge and is an ideal location, our next challenge is to find a professional ‘graffiti' artist to artwork the two enormous flyover walls that flank the facility, it will look brilliant when it is completed!!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, tries unsuccessfully to ride a skateboard at Fleetsbridge Skateboard Park.
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, and Consort Mr David Butt with parents and children at the Fleetsbridge Skateboard Park.
28th July – Mayor of Poole Gets Work Experience
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, entertained Josh Polchar, a 17 year old Corfe Hills Student who is on work experience with Democratic Services.
Josh has just finished his AS levels and is set to take his A levels next year in Law, History and Politics. He sat in on a Civic Awards business meeting and ably contributed to the debate, making several excellent suggestions as to form and function.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Josh is a star and a great ambassador for students of his own age. He is set for a career in finance or politics and whichever route he takes I feel certain he will succeed. He was pretty radical in the haircut department but I think perhaps this gave us all an insight into the edge he will have on all of us in years to come."
The Mayor of Poole, Mrs Judy Butt, with work experience student Josh Polchar in her Parlour.
28th July - Mayor of Poole In Her Cups at the Civic!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, kept a promise by completing her second round of the Civic Centre as a ‘trolley dolly'.
Following her first foray as tea lady three weeks ago, the Mayor visited the departments she had been unable to reach previously, meeting hundreds more Council staff and giving them their first ever ‘close up and personal' look at the Mayoral Chain. She also heard a great deal of feedback about how much staff appreciated their ‘Mad Mayor' of Poole, and reading every week about her exploits on the Council's intranet and web site (www.boroughofpoole.com/mayor). During the morning, staff members donated £16.50 towards the Mayor's Charities.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "It was another triumph for the tea ladies in that I proved again to be sadly lacking in the points departments - 10/10 for customer focus, 7/10 for product knowledge and yet again a dismal 3/10 for driving skills. However, I complained bitterly that there were no parking bay demarcations in any of the corridors and the trolley had no brakes. I can only suggest to all of you in Transportation that bus clearways are a must in this regard, I am watching this space with interest! There is also another downside to the trolley pushing in that try as I might my ‘gluteus minimus' protruded at all times, Pat our tea lady extraordinaire does not somehow suffer from the problem, years of practice and deportment methinks!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with tea lady Mrs Pat Priest and the tea trolley.
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, serves tea to Mrs Sonia Lomax of Financial Services while tea lady Mrs Pat Priest keeps a wary eye out.
27th July - Mayor of Poole Welcomes New Citizens
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by the Sheriff of Poole, presided at the scheduled monthly Citizenship Ceremony in the Marriage Room at the Civic Centre Annex.
Her Majesty the Queen has written to all her County Lord Lieutenants asking them to become more involved in Citizenship Ceremonies. Our own Lord Lieutenant Mrs Valerie Pitt- Rivers, the Queen's representative in Dorset, has been welcomed to attend a ceremony in November.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I am deeply honored and delighted to be welcoming Mrs Pitt-Rivers to our very own Poole ceremony. Mrs Pitt- Rivers will take precedence over me as the Mayor and First Citizen of Poole as the Queen's representative in Dorset and will give the welcoming address to all new British Citizens attending that day. I shall have the privilege of introducing and thanking the Lord Lieutenant. I and everyone at the Registrar's office, where these ceremonies are held are delighted to be hosting this very special event."
27th July - Mayor of Poole Becomes Part of History
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, entertained local historian Mr Mike Cullen in her parlour.
When Judy was Sheriff last year, Mr Cullen very kindly wrote a potted history of the Sheriff of Poole for her and this assisted her greatly in her first few months as Sheriff, when the history learning curve was at its steepest. The Mayor promised to invite Mr Cullen for coffee in her Parlour in thanks for his great kindness and she was overwhelmed to discover that Mr Cullen had written another potted history of the Mayoralty which will prove extremely useful for the Mayoral Insignia talks that she gives to the public on a regular basis.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Mr Cullen has obviously spent untold hours researching the history of Poole into a concise readable narrative that can be understood across all age and academic spectrums. I was very touched when he dedicated the work to me and gave me permission to pass on the information to future Mayors, which I know will prove to be invaluable to them when they first start the daunting historical odyssey into all things Mayoral!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with local historian Mr Mike Cullen in her Parlour.
26th July - Mayor of Poole Reveals a Childhood Secret
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, attended a County Week Reception at the East Dorset Lawn Tennis Club in Lilliput.
This was a superb opportunity for the Mayor to share in a childhood secret. Judy went to school with the now famous Miss Sue Barker of Wimbledon, a Question of Sport and commentator notoriety. As a full time boarder at the school Judy had no alternative but to be ‘available' to play ‘knock up' tennis with Miss Barker at her behest, therefore somewhat erroneously claiming that Miss Barker owed her success to all those early mornings!
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I remember Sue very well; we had a lot of fun and played a lot of tennis, playing and winning the Aberdare Schools Cup in the early 70's. I took a picture of Sue and I along with me to the evening and the guests had fun picking us out from a crowd of over 30 girls in our class at the time, obviously I haven't changed a bit, still modest after all these years!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with other guests at the County Week Reception.
26th July - Mayor of Poole Sends Condolences
We have all heard of the tragic death of Corporal John Johnson Cosby of the Devonshire and Dorset Light Infantry Regiment who was recently killed whilst on active duty in Iraq. The Mayor received an invitation to Corporal Cosby's funeral on 26th July for 27th July, but due to late notice and previously booked engagements was unable to attend. However a card of condolence and covering letter was sent to his family on behalf of all the residents of Poole from the Mayor in their support at this very sad time.
25th July – The Mayor of Poole Paints a Deal
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, entertained Mrs Hilary Bithell, of Poole Leisure Painters, in her Parlour.
During a visit to Rockley Park several weeks ago, the Mayor was struck by a newly refurbished ‘gallery' area in the resort reception which was lacking in any wall furnishings. She had already been made aware that the local artists' group was seeking a display facility, and in this visit she was able to broker an arrangement with MD Mr Geoffrey Smith which would assist both parties, giving the painters' group an outlet for their superb skills while enhancing a public area at the popular holiday resort.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I was lucky enough to be asked to judge a painting competition some time ago for Poole Leisure Painters and was very impressed by the standard of work of our local artists but concerned that they lacked a permanent gallery space in which to display and sell their art. Thanks to the generosity of Bourne Estates they now have that outlet. I am very much looking forward to opening the new gallery in due course, this has been a really superb outcome for all concerned."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mrs Hilary Bithell of Poole Leisure Painters, in her Parlour.
24th July - Mayor of Poole Looks Into a Mirror
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, opened the 2006 Mirror (Dinghy) Europeans Sailing Championship at Poole Yacht Club.
Sailing began with the UK National Championships at the weekend, which was highly successful despite a disruption on Saturday caused by a sudden thunderstorm. The International Championship ran from Tuesday to Saturday, and full information can be found on http://www.ukmirrorsailing.com/.
The ceremony began with a gathering of contestants at St James Church in Poole where, after being ‘cried in' by Poole town crier David Squires, the event was blessed by Rev Bob Mason and the Mayor made an excellent welcoming speech and met many of the 500 contestants and guests, after which everybody moved to a reception at Poole Yacht Club in Hamworthy. In a moving gesture of unity, contestants from around the UK and Europe brought bottles of water from their home waters, mixed them in a large silver cup, then ceremonially poured the water into Poole Harbour with the Mayor watching over the ritual.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Poole YC were brilliant, the executive committee headed by Larry Rumbol Event Director and Colin Rainback PYC Commodore and his wife Fiona have brought together a superb event with great success. The arrival of so many visitors for over a week's duration further stimulates the local economy, which in turn benefits the whole community of Poole. I would like to warn all current sailors that Poole YC invited my husband David and myself to become members, we are of course giving this our serious consideration but will not be hitting the waters until next year at the earliest so you have some breathing space!!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, looks on as the mixed waters are poured into Poole Harbour.
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, and Mr David Butt, with one of the young sailors and his father.
23rd July - Mayor of Poole Celebrates Friends and Family
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, attended the Patronal Festival Service at the Poole Town parish church of St James, reaffirming friendships and family ties within the church of St James.
The celebration service was led by Bishop Rt Rev Timothy Thornton of Sherborne and Rev Bob Mason. Both individuals are well known for their lightness of touch and humour when it comes to ‘sermons' but it was hard to chose between the two on the morning as they both treated the congregation to personal anecdotes and ‘a funny thing happened to me on the way the church today'.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said, "The service was extremely uplifting but also very modernistic and open in its approach. My daughter Georgie who joined us on the morning thoroughly enjoyed the contemporary hymns and music, the organist changing tack and playing the piano in accompaniment, he made Liberace look tame! My faith is extremely important to me but with such an ecumenical approach the Patronal Service provides a spiritual benefit for all our local communities."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Bishop Rt Rev Timothy Thornton of Sherborne at the Patronal Service at St James.
21st July - Mayor of Poole Meets Double Auction Winner
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, entertained Mr Rex Farndon in her Parlour. Rex was the lucky bidder of two fabulous lots in her recent Grand Summer Gala Ball.
He nabbed a superb all-singing all-dancing top of the range mountain bike kindly donated by Future 3000 Plc for a mere £240 worth at least twice that and a 2 week luxury apartment in the Costa Del Sol with every extra imaginable for a tiny £425; the apartment sleeps six and can be reached in a mere 3.25 hours by air from Bournemouth.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "It was a pleasure to personally present Rex with his bidded lots and to thank him for his kindness. We enjoyed a cup or two of wine and toasted the health and happiness of all those who will benefit directly from his generosity"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mr Rex Farndon in her Parlour.
21st July - Mayor of Poole Keeps up with the Jones
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, received Mrs Jane Jones in her Parlour, who is organizing a super food/music fest in Parkstone in September.
Jane has asked the Mayor to open the fest and visited her to discuss her charities and inform the Mayor that proceeds from the raffle would be donated to her Mayor's Charity Appeal Fund.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "It is always a pleasure to work within the community and support all local events, Jane's generosity is very much appreciated and I very much look forward to her event in September."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mrs Jane Jones in her Parlour.
21st July - Mayor of Poole Turns to Horticulture
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, received Mr Ben Turner winner of young Horticulturalist of the Year 2006 in her Parlour. Ben, a former St Edward's School pupil, beat 7 other contestants into first place to win £100 and £15 of Unwins seed vouchers for his achievement, and now has a place in the national final and a chance at the Percy Thrower Travel Bursary worth £1500. He has just completed a BSc in Horticulture and is set to receive a 2/1 degree. He has already been offered a place at Wisley where he hopes to continue his studies. At 23 he has already had a Fuschia named after him and is set to be the Alan Titchmarsh of the future.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I was delighted to meet Ben and his family who have worked so hard to support and encourage him in his aspirations to become a horticulturalist. I was struck by Ben's gentle nature and obvious intelligence, his family have every reason to be extraordinarily proud of him as am I, he is already setting a fabulous example to other youngsters who will hopefully follow in his ‘green' footsteps."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with winner of young Horticulturalist of the Year 2006 Mr Ben Turner, his mother Mrs Sarah Turner and grandparents Doug and Barbara Jesse in her Parlour.
21st July - Mayor of Poole Questioned at Police HQ
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, attended a Civic Day at Dorset Police headquarters at Winfrith.
This event was the brainchild of the Mayor who is also a member of the Dorset Police Authority. She identified the need for improved communication between Civic leaders of all Dorset Councils and the Dorset Police Force; the Civic day that has evolved from this concept is an informative and practical display of our modern Police Force at work within Dorset and has proved to be very popular with over 150 people from all over Dorset in attendance.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said, "It was heartening to see how this event has grown in approach and content. The Chief Constable Mr Martin Baker gave a splendid presentation of police personnel from all departments and levels of responsibility, we gained a true insight into how the Police Force function and what they are facing within our modern day society."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, tries out a police jet ski during the Civic Day at Dorset Police headquarters at Winfrith.
20th July - Mayor of Poole Roks Around the Clock
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort David Butt attended the ‘Rok Around The Clock' ball at the Study Gallery, organized by the Bournemouth & Pool College.
The event was in order to raise money to repair the 19th century clock tower of the old Ladies College in Bournemouth, now Bournemouth and Poole College.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The Study Gallery had not been used as a dinner dance venue before, but it worked beautifully on the night, surrounded by art and crafts we all enjoyed a delicious cold buffet supper and danced well into the morning. The event raised several thousand pounds for the clock tower appeal and I am delighted that the building is to be saved for the future, with so many of our older buildings falling into disrepair I am comforted to see the dedication in our Bournemouth and Poole College Principal Mr Rowland Foote in doing all he can to maintain the structure and spirit of this lovely old building, a true opportunity for the two Boroughs of Bournemouth and Poole to share in it's success!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with other guests at the ‘Rok Around The Clock' ball at the Study Gallery.
20th July - Mayor of Poole Bowls Them Over
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort David Butt, explored the re-furbished Bowlplex ten-pin bowling alley at Tower Park, prior to re-opening the following day. She wore a fabulous cerise evening dress for the event, prior to going on to a Ball in the town.
Bowlplex's £2M investment was demonstrated by Bowlplex's PR Director Zoe Wilson and Commercial Director Marena Hyatt, taking the form of new high-tech lanes and scoring boards, an exciting new amusements and entertainment centre, refurbished café and bar areas, and a brand-new American pool pit. Trying out the new lanes, the Mayor managed to score a strike and a spare.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The new refurbishment is very fresh and open and a great safe fun place for youngsters and adults alike to be, the food is of good quality and well priced I am sure the venue will prove to be very popular."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with the disc jockey at the Bowlplex ten-pin bowling alley at Tower Park.
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, tries out the bowling lanes, scoring a spare and a strike.
20th July - Mayor of Poole’s Pride and Joy
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, on the hottest day to date this month accompanied by the Deputy Leader of the Council, leading architects and officers from the environmental agency and the BoP toured the nominated buildings and landmark sites in Poole's Pride of Place Awards.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "We looked at a lot of buildings and land sites and were very impressed by the standard of shape and form of what we saw. However the winners of the awards are at present a closely guarded secret and I am unable to divulge who they are but watch this space!"
19th July - Mayor of Poole Answers Back!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort David, attended a Quiz Night at The Cygnet café, organised by the Friends of Poole Park to raise funds for more facilities within the park.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "We came a very decent 3rd with only 4 in our team in comparison to six in most other groups we certainly did very well. Being an all girl team, except for David we were pretty dismal when it came to sport and geography and sadly these were not David's best subjects either. However we did enjoy a delicious fish and chip/ploughman's supper, one of the questions was how many square meters of inland water are there in Poole harbour, any ideas?"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with her team at the FOPP Quiz Night at The Cygnet café.
19th July - Mayor of Poole Celebrates 2nd Birthday in One Day!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, dropped into IT Services to congratulate ‘Stormin' Norman Neate on his birthday - how many is a closely guarded secret!
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "In true Marilyn Monroe style I sang an abridged (mercifully) version of ‘happy birthday to you' and presented Norman with a card and my abject amazement that he had reached such an enormous mathematical milestone in numerical terms!"
19th July - Mayor of Poole Celebrates 102nd Birthday!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, joined Mrs Winifred James at the Laurels & Pine Lodge in Oakdale, to celebrate her 102nd birthday. She was delighted by a huge bouquet of flowers presented to her by the Mayor.
Win, as she likes to be called, still bright and cheerful despite her advanced years, was the senior of four generations of her family who enjoyed her birthday party. The youngest were her two granddaughters, one at university studying pharmacy and the other due to join her sister shortly to learn about psychology.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "We did have a giggle, Win in no uncertain terms was adamant that she would be having another birthday party together with cake and a visit from me as Mayor next year! We sang her ‘happy birthday' and blew out the candles at least twice much to her delight, after several sherries and many cuddles from Win I bid her my goodbyes raising a filled glass to toast her health and happiness."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mrs Winifred James at the Laurels & Pine Lodge in Oakdale, on her 102nd birthday.
18th July - Mayor of Poole Face to Face with Cancer Charity
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, entertained Mrs Christine Bueno in the Mayor's Parlour.
Mrs Christine Bueno is the Dorset representative for the new face of Macmillan Cancer Support. A huge investment has taken place to change the approach and image of the charity and Christine is extremely keen to recruit members of our local communities to lead teams of volunteers within this new structure.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "It is vital that we support each other's endeavours in our charitable work. By sharing best practice, volunteer resources and experience we can all gain the very best from our mutual understanding and rapport. If you would like to know more please contact me soonest."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mrs Christine Bueno in the Mayor's Parlour.
18th July - Mayor of Poole In The Frame
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, opened an exhibition of historic photographs of Poole, held at St James Church. After being ‘cried in' by the Poole Town Crier David Squires, the Mayor made a short opening speech, ceremonially unlocked the huge church doors and invited the waiting spectators inside to view the exhibition.
There were hundreds of photographs of local historic interest, ranging from recent events to the earliest times of photography, and covering a wide range of subjects from Civic events to the Power Station demolition in 1992 and the bombing of the gas works at Branksome in WW2. The display also included a montage of all of the listed buildings in Poole, created by Poole Council's Planning Department. All of the photographs were loaned for the purpose by various organisations and individuals, including the Daily Echo and RNLI. The exhibition is open until 29th July, 10.30-16.30 daily, and entrance is free.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I did not expect to see such a large and comprehensive selection of photographs, tapestries and paintings, the amount of planning that went into laying out the display is impressive as is the exhibition in itself. I spotted 10 people that I knew over the years in the various montages, it's certainly worth a look you may well recognize yourself or a relative or friend, everyone is welcome to visit and I would certainly recommend that you do."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with spectators at the exhibition of historic photographs of Poole at St James Church.
17th & 18th July - Mayor of Poole Teaches Future Citizens
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, gave an early bird talk at Poole Grammar School's Citizenship Day for year 8 and 9 students on two consecutive days.
The Mayor spent some 25 minutes each day explaining the structure of a modern council, and the functions and duties of the Mayor past and present. She then assisted many of the students in answering a quiz, meeting and talking to all of them.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The standard of knowledge displayed by the students was pretty humbling, I had some difficulty with some of the questions but they seemed to sail through them. It was a fun day and much enjoyed by the teachers and students. They were a little taken aback by an adult in full Mayoral robes and chains but were delighted to hear of our rather quaint customs in Poole and our diverse and interesting history."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, working with students at Poole Grammar School Citizenship Day.
17th July - Mayor of Poole Cheques in for Sea Cadets
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, presented awards to Poole Sea Cadets at TS Drax in Sterte Avenue.
The joint donation marks the completion of a large sewerage project in Hamworthy by Wessex Water with support from Sydenhams. The Mayor joined them in presenting a very generous cheque for £1000 to the unit commander to help fund an ambitious £140k project to expand facilities at the Poole Sea Cadets base in Sterte Avenue West.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "This money will really make a difference yet again our own local community companies are supporting our youngsters in ensuring that they have a safe and exciting environment in which to learn new skills and meet new friends."
17th July - Mayor of Poole Seeks Help for Champion Gymnasts
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, attended a meeting of the Olga gymnastic team at Rossmore Leisure Centre.
The team is to take part in an international gymnastics competition in the Czech Republic as they are the No 1 champions in Britain in their age group from 15 to 22 years. The Mayor enviously watched a display of superb acrobatic skills, every young women seeming to be able to bend in any direction with the grace of a ballerina and the strength of a woodsman.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "This fabulous team are looking to raise £6000 to enable them to travel to take part in the championships, they have had managed to raise £3000 thus far but they are still striving to raise the remaining funds. It is such a shame that they face this further detriment they are true champions and they should not be burdened with the worry of not knowing whether they would be able to compete or not through lack of funding, if you know anyone who can help please let me know."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with members of the Olga gymnastic team at Rossmore Leisure Centre.
16th July - Mayor of Poole Catches a Stagecoach
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her Consort David Butt, attended a theatre performance at the Lighthouse organised by Stagecoach in celebration of the young artists who are members of the group. They gave a stunning performance of dance and song based on the story of Aladdin, three different groups from the Borough only meeting on the day to put together the whole show with the other groups.
The Mayor was asked to go on stage and present the awards and she truly rose to the occasion. In true pantomime style she split off the audience into two groups and had them vying with each other regarding volume of response to various ‘can you hear me' questioning. She spoke for some 10 minutes congratulating everyone for their talents and making everyone laugh in her delivery of some pretty corny old jokes.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Being thrust out in front of 650 people was not exactly what I had expected but it was great fun, I shared a few ancient jokes with them and they laughed somewhat dutifully but they all agreed to my summation of the artists who had given us such a super performance that evening, I suggested that the Stage Director had many talents but that the young artists had only two........everything they say and everything they do, after a short gasp the audience readily agreed and, deftly avoiding the stage hook to remove me from the stage, I took my leave, a fantastic experience."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with Stagecoach President Karl Grey, Vice-President Shelley Steel, and stagehands on stage at the Lighthouse.
16th July - Mayor of Poole Springs into Action!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt was delighted to open a summer fair for the S.P.R.I.N.G. charity in Poole Park. After a fabulous Fanfare played by the Poole Borough Band she cut a huge yellow ribbon and declared the fete officially open.
The charity, Supporting Parents & Relatives in Neo-natal Grief, provides counseling and befriending to bereaved parents and relatives at times of loss. It operates a private suite at Poole Maternity unit, and the Snowdrop Remembrance Garden at Poole Cemetery.
The Mayor visited all the stalls and attractions, meeting all of the helpers and trying out a specially-kitted Ferrari for size and was especially delighted to welcome 3½-year old Gemma Seton, who had completed a sponsored ride around Poole Park lake on her kiddy cycle, contributing £1000 to the total of £6000 raised on the day.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "A great day, Gemma was a little star. I slid gracefully into the Ferrari seat but not so gracefully out of it, it was suggested after several minutes of struggle and eventual freedom that I had had the choice of using the ejector seat, an option that I did not take up! I enjoyed a splendid tea in the tea tent with home made flapjacks and walnut cake, decades old secret recipes of the magnificent ladies who served tea. The money raised will make all the difference to those who are in need of this vital support, an amazing achievement for a day's fundraising."
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt and Consort David Butt with helper Trisha, event organizer Dagmar James and SPRING Chairman Kate Ward at the Summer Fair
15th July – The Mayor of Poole Goes To The Ball
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt and her family, presided at the Mayor's Charity Gala Ball in aid of the Mayor's Charities.
On a warm, sunny evening, 110 charity representatives, Councillors, prominent local businessmen and residents assembled at the Quay Thistle Hotel for a superb evening of eating and drinking, entertainment, dancing and fund-raising. The event began with a cocktail reception, during which the Mayor and members of her charity committee greeted their guests, who also had the opportunity of having photos taken to record the occasion.
During the luxurious four-course meal local magician James Brown, accredited as ‘2006 Close-up Magician of the Year', circulated the tables, leaving diners puzzled and astounded by his prestidigitation. Coffee was accompanied by singer Liz Ferrir who kept everybody enthralled and finished to rapturous applause. There followed three hours of dancing to fabulous live band Domino, interrupted only when professional auctioneer Mark ‘bid-master' Proudley, ably accompanied by the Mayor, teased guests into digging deep in their cheque books to buy a range of lots which included several exotic holidays, two bicycles, and many other tempting purchases.
Finally at midnight, all the guests reluctantly left with happy memories of a wonderful evening, but considerably lighter wallets, having donated an unprecedented £4325 for the Mayor's charities!!
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "A huge thank you to all our honored guests, friends and colleagues. My Charity Committee worked so hard to make the evening a fabulous success and it certainly was that, it is amazing that we raised so much money people were so generous, what is even better is they would all like to join us next year in our Spring Charity Ball, hoping that we will again be a sell out and that you too may join us on the evening!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with her husband and Consort Mr David Butt at the Mayor's Charity Gala Ball.
15th July - Mayor of Poole Turns Over a Leaf
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, signed books purchased at the Mayor's Charity Book Sale held in the Dolphin Centre, organized by Poole Central Library to dispose of surplus books.
Thousands of quality books were sold over six busy hours at knock-down prices, and the stall was almost being mobbed at times, belying the public perception that people no longer read books. The sale raised £250 for the Mayor's Charities.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "We seem to have come full circle where we now have state of the art computers in our homes but not as many books as we would traditionally buy, therefore our libraries are much better utilised in our communities' search for reading materials, this certainly proved to be the point at the book sale with people snapping up well known novel and reference book bargains. I found a bargain for my husband - the ‘Haynes Dishwasher Manual' - a must in very home!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt signing a book for a customer at the Mayor's Charity Book Sale.
15th July - Mayor of Poole Gets a Run-around!
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt started the Barclays-sponsored Sports Relief Fun Run at Baiter Park, with hundreds of local children and adults participating.
Sports Relief is initiated by the well-known charity Comic Relief, and is in its third campaign of fund-raising, following huge successes in 2002 and 2004, raising a total of nearly £30 million for its many charities at home and in the poorest countries in the world. Among many other activities, sponsored mile runs are being held on the same day in towns all around the UK.
Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I am a great supporter of using sport to raise money for charity; last week I cycled 68 miles on the Tour de France route. Having started the run from the middle of the starting line, I had to just stand there and hope I wouldn't be trampled. Fortunately, the crowd parted around me and I was left standing in the dust!"
The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Fun Runners at the start at Baiter Park.