Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole 2006/07

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, presided over the Poole Youth Forum election of a representative to the UK Youth Parliament.

The annual event elects a representative from Poole to the national Youth parliament, giving the young person opportunities to travel all over the UK in the care of Poole Council's Youth Services, representing the young people of Poole and presenting their views in national forums. The election is genuinely independent and administered by Poole Council's Electoral Services department. With 17 hopefuls putting themselves forward for election, each gave a three-minute speech to present themselves and their manifesto before voting took place.

The Mayor was stunned when the winner, by a substantial margin, was her own daughter Miss Georgina Butt, standing for her first attempt. The deputy elected was last year's MYP Miss Sophie Bradfield.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "My Georgie gave an absolutely stonking speech which amazed even me, and which she insisted on writing all on her own without help. Neither of us really believed she would succeed but these young people are smart - they recognise talent when they see it. I'm sure she will have a magnificent year and learn a great deal; she will also do her very best for the young people who elected her and will have my unconditional support."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, talks with members of Poole Youth Forum at the UK Youth Parliament elections

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, encourages potential nominees at the UK Youth Parliament elections.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband Mr David Butt, enters the Conference Room for the hustings at the UK Youth Parliament elections.

Some of the 17 hopefuls at the UK Youth Parliament elections.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband Mr David Butt, enjoy a chat and refreshments while waiting for the result at the UK Youth Parliament elections.

The candidates show off their ‘manifestos' at the UK Youth Parliament elections.

The shock result! The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Electoral Services Head Mr Paul Morris, presents certificates to the winners at the UK Youth Parliament elections.

The deserving winners - the Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with new MYP Miss Georgina Butt and Deputy MYP Miss Sophie Bradfield at the UK Youth Parliament elections.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt met representatives from the Help and Care Charity, one of the Mayor's nominated charities, to discuss the creative writing project which is being sponsored by the Mayor.

Help and Care was first formed in 1985 to look into the needs of older people in Bournemouth, becoming an independent charity in 1989 and expanding their role to include carers of all ages. More than just a traditional charity, Help and Care are about connecting with a wide range of networks and communities nationwide in order to bring about change and improvements in people's lives.

In choosing her chosen charities, the Mayor requested that each should put in a bid and this should include a submission which must outline a complete  project on which the funds would be spent , making the donation from the Mayor's Charity Appeal visible and accountable to the public. Help and Care are producing a book of poems and creative writing called ‘My Own Words', which they plan to market to produce finance for future operations.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I was very mindful that sometimes monies can be raised for an organisation and that those who worked so hard to raise the funds are not accounted to, as to what it was spent on or why. It is imperative that every Charity is accountable for the donations that they receive not just to the Charity Commission and the taxman but also most importantly to the local people who most often raise the money in the first instance.  Help and Care were slightly different from my other two Charities as I approached them with my idea, regarding the creation of a book of poems and observations by the very people that have experienced care in some capacity over the years. The first draft I have seen is delightful; the poems written are insightful and poignant.  There will be an exhibition of the work at the Central Library and the Study Gallery later this May, well worth a visit. It is envisaged by me to use the finished booklet as a medium for schools creative writing projects and for Social Service providers to have an insight into the hearts and minds of those that are so in need of our support in the community".

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with the Creative Writing team from the Help and Care Charity.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt launched the recently refurbished B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge.

Already the largest home improvement retailer in the UK, B&Q have invested £2.6 million in a makeover of the store, creating more than 40 new jobs and featuring new kitchen and bathroom ranges, a wider range of bulk products and improved offers for the trade sector and extended opening hours. Excellent customer service remains at the forefront of the store.

The Mayor used a pair of B&Q shears to cut a ribbon to open the store, ably assisted by John the Joiner and a fabulously dressed Poole Pirate. The Mayor gave a humorous opening speech, in which she explained that she was the interior design guru of her home, while her husband did the work - not always successfully! The opening was also marked by a treasure hunt for customers to win a bathroom suite, as well as competitions and free drinks and nibbles throughout the day. Touring the store, the Mayor was impressed by the new safety machines for dispensing and cutting carpet rolls, and gathered new ideas from the kitchen and bathroom departments. She was delighted by the new cafeteria and was completely taken aback when, having admired an orchid in the flowers section, the General Manager Mr Jon Hudson promptly presented it to her!

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I was intrigued to discover that B&Q was founded in 1969 just up the road in Southampton, selling Formica to the nation, and there are now B&Q stores around the world! Having heard about a B&Q employee recently celebrating his 90^th birthday, maybe there is a future career for sitting and ex-councillors in Poole!

Seriously, B&Q is an exemplar to its employees and customers, and we look forward to a long and happy relationship with the true and original kings of DIY."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with store manager Charlie and area manager Jon at the relaunch of the recently refurbished B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, showered with confetti after cutting a ribbon at the relaunch of the B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with store customer advisers at the relaunch of the B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, tries out a new bathroom suite at the relaunch of the B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, serves coffee in the new cafeteria at the relaunch of the B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, meets a very young DIY enthusiast at the relaunch of the B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge.

Even the chauffeur gets into the spirit! The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with macebearer Mr David Knight at the relaunch of the B&Q superstore at Fleetsbridge.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt attended the AGM of the Poole branch of the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

The Tall Ships Youth Trust, incorporating the Sail Training Association, is a registered charity founded in 1956 and dedicated to the personal development of young people aged 16 to 25 through the crewing of Tall Ships. The Trust owns 2 magnificent 60 metre square-rigged ships, Stavros S Niarchos and Prince William, which are among the world's most magnificent brigs. They are operated by Tall Ships Ltd., one of the charity's subsidiaries, and work 12 months of the year both around the UK and abroad, offering Tall Ship Adventure Sailing Holidays.

Following a report of another successful year given by Chairman Miss Kath Whitehead, all of the officers were unanimously re-elected. The Mayor gave a speech in which she expressed her admiration for the Trust members especially the committee, together with a few well chosen jokes from her inexhaustible supply, to set the tone of the evening!

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "As usual a Charitable organisation is only ever as good as the amazing people that sit behind it and we certainly have that here in the Tall Ships Youth Trust.  It was a lovely opportunity for everyone to get together to chat over last year's successes and plan for 2007/08.  I have been very taken by this particular group and I was not surprise to find out that most of the members worked for other Trusts and Charitable organizations, but then we all know the old adage ‘need a volunteer - ask a busy person' !"

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, at the top table with branch Chairman Miss Kath Whitehead and branch Treasurer Mr H Paine at the branch AGM of the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

Another win! The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, claims her raffle prizes at the branch AGM of the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, chats with a member of the Trust over nibbles at the branch AGM of the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt attended a lecture at Bournemouth University about managing talent.

Entitled ‘The 90 Minute Manager' after the very successful book, the whole lecture was pitched around the challenges of running a top football team, consisting of young, diverse, talented and assertive people, problems which can be applied to many businesses and situations, and was delivered by Professor Chris Brady, the author of the book and the new Head of Design, Engineering and Computing at the University. This event was the second in a series of popular open lectures, launched by the Mayor in conjunction with Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Nick Petford (see Mayor's Diary 28^th September), and was heavily oversubscribed long before the event.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I was intrigued by the title of the lecture and when the theme of football became apparent after a second or two I did nearly switch off!  However minutes into the lecture it became obvious how similar managing a football team and a large Borough Council are. The Borough too consists of a wide range of age groups and diversity, a multi-talented workforce full of very assertive but also many undemonstrative people. However every person has value and has to be treated in a way that will bring out the best in them, but it is imperative that the guidelines for everyone remain the same, it is how those guidelines are applied regarding individual people that will make the difference. I may buy a copy of the book myself - with three teenagers and a husband to care for it could prove to be invaluable!!!!"

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with PR Officer Mr Charles Elder at Bournemouth University.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, chatting with two professors at Bournemouth University.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, in the audience at Bournemouth University.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, presided at a Citizenship Ceremony in the Marriage Room at the Civic Centre.

Nine applicants took their pledges of loyalty to Britain and the Queen, originating from many countries including Afghanistan, Latvia and Estonia.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Our new citizens are very welcome; we live in a rapidly growing community and the influx of fresh viewpoints and cultural diversity are an essential factor in keeping our town vibrant and modern."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, welcoming applicants at the Citizenship Ceremony.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with the new British citizens at the Citizenship Ceremony.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, watches as a new British citizen signs the register at the Citizenship Ceremony.

Members of the Registrar's office staff at the Citizenship Ceremony.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt met Mr David Dean of D&R Marketing in her Parlour.

D&R Marketing is a Holton Heath-based marketing company, offering a full range of marketing support services to all sizes of local businesses. The company organizes business networking events, including the lunch recently attended by the Mayor at Topo Gigio see Mayor's Diary 17^th January).

The Mayor and David discussed a number of ways in which marketing techniques could be of benefit, and David agreed to approach some of his business contacts on behalf of the Mayor's Charities.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I have now attended several Social Networking Gatherings and they really work. Poole has thousands of businesses but you will be amazed at the difficulties they face in being in contact with one another.  We have an excellent Dorset Chamber of Commerce, chaired by Mr Peter Scott who works tirelessly to promote good business but they still find it difficult to bring businesses together that may benefit each other. These small social gatherings in a pleasant and relaxed environment are beginning to roll out all across our Poole business communities and are becoming the way forward, it saves endless telephone calls, letters or e-mails when you can be sitting next to the MD of the local company that you would like to do business with. It is also vital that we keep as much business in Poole as we can and if local businesses reciprocate for other local business that can only benefit all Poole  residents in the future. "

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mr David Dean of D&R Marketing in her Parlour.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by Mrs Bobby Stevens and past Mayor Mr Fred Winwood, presented the Dennis Stevens Cup to Mr Lee Ford on behalf of the Purbeck Gateway Club for young people with learning difficulties for winning a Mencap skittles competition.

The cup is named for the late Mr Dennis Stevens, a volunteer who dedicated over a quarter of a century's work for Mencap, particularly for young people. When Mr Fred Winwood, during his term as Mayor in 1994, succeeded in raising substantial funds for the charity, it was Mr Dennis Stevens who suggested how the money should be used, including opening the Peacock Tearooms in Upton Country Park.

Having entertained the party to a relaxed tea in her Parlour, the Mayor took great delight in formally presenting the cup to Lee, together with a plaque personally donated by her to keep as a permanent memento of the occasion.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I knew Dennis as a personal friend and he is much missed. When his little daughter was born and she was found to have learning difficulties, his first thought was for other parents who found themselves in the same situation. He refused to waste time in what he could never have but chose with Bobby his wife to invest in all the sons and daughters of Poole who shared similar challenges.  In all the years I knew him he was never low but always planning the next holiday where he would take large numbers of young folk away so their parents could have a little time to themselves and the youngsters could enjoy the company and experience of being away from home but in a safe family environment with Dennis, Bobby and the hordes of supporters that were always there to help.

Dennis has created his own legacy and I am extremely proud to have been the first Mayor to have awarded the cup, I am sure that the custom will continue for many more years to come. "

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, presenting the Dennis Stevens Cup to Mr Lee Ford on behalf of the Purbeck Gateway Club.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, in her Parlour with (left to right) past Mayor Cllr Les Burden; past Mayor Mr Fred Winwood; cup winner Mr Lee Ford; Mrs Bobby Stevens and Purbeck Gateway Club coordinator Mr Graham Coombes.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, launched the new faith-based Hope FM local radio station, whose licence to broadcast will come into force in mid May.

Hope FM, the broadcasting arm of Bournemouth YMCA, has been broadcasting for 13 years under a restricted service licence, and has recently been awarded a licence to operate as a community radio station. It is currently off-air pending the commencement of broadcasting in four months time. The station is non-profit making, operating from a Christian ethos and plans to provide a mix of family entertainment, giving a high level of input into programming by community groups and residents in the area.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The mere title of the station sends signal that is both uplifting and forward thinking. As a practicing Christian myself there are many times when I need time to reflect and reassess and Hope FM with it's combination of faith, music and community interest will be the perfect catalyst."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with the Hope FM team at the launch.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, learning about the Hope FM radio station, accompanied by Poole Forum Coordinator Mrs Karen Rampton.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, met Mrs Valerie French in her Parlour to give an interview about adult learning in Poole.

Asked about her own experiences in adult learning, the Mayor related how, as a mother of three children, she found her skills as an experienced Electronic Wiring Technician no longer in demand. She decided to make use of adult learning in Poole to retrain, taking several courses including counselling and legal training, and began a new career as a legal executive. While she now spends most of her time working as a full-time borough councillor, the training still stands her in good stead both in dealing with constituents and in the council chamber.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The training I received gave me the confidence to steer my life in a new direction, and I have never looked back. There is a social element as well; the classes comprised an eclectic mix of people and I formed friendships which I have never lost to this day."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mrs Valerie French in her Parlour giving an interview about adult learning in Poole.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, made an informal visit to the kitchens at Poole Hospital, having received an invitation during a visit to the wards before Christmas.

The kitchens, with about 30 staff on duty on any day, prepare some 2500 meals daily, including a selection of 11 main courses daily from a repertoire of over 40 main courses, coping with a variety of specialised diets including soft food, diabetic and kosher. Catering staff are also responsible for delivering meals to the wards, ensuring that meals reach patients within 20 minutes of completing preparation. The hospital staff restaurant is also supplied from the same food prepared for patients. NHS bulk buying capabilities are utilised to achieve maximum efficiency savings and high quality, while using local produce wherever possible to promote local businesses.

The Mayor was greeted by the Catering Manager Mr Kevin Bailey, who escorted her on a guided tour of the kitchens, introducing the staff who took a brief moment to chat in the middle of a busy lunchtime. He described with great pride the washing up machine, one of only a few similar in the country, which washes, rinses and sterilises crockery in a single three-stage operation. On visiting the restaurant, the next customer to walk in was none other than Hospital Trust Chairman Mr Peter Harvey, who was somewhat taken aback to find his lunch being served by the Mayor of Poole!!

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The operation is huge, the floor area of the kitchens must be getting on for a football pitch or two! The food is all home made and the delicious smells coming from the various cooking areas was mouth watering. I enjoyed the food immensely during my recent hospital stay and as most people know I am not a big foodie. Mr Bailey has a wonderful team of people working with him and it was like being amongst a big family of food technicians rather than individuals who merely turn up for work each day. My 16 year old son is training to be a chef at Le Bateau in Poole and he come homes each night exhausted with the pace, imagine how the amazing food preparation team at the hospital must feel providing 2500 meals to our wards, let alone those that are also served in the hospital restaurant, the food is exactly the same so why not sample it for yourself as it is open to the public each day, enjoy."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Catering Manager Mr Kevin Bailey outside Poole Hospital on her visit to the kitchens.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with the kitchen team serving patients' lunches at Poole Hospital.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, makes a rare foray into washing up during her visit to the kitchens at Poole Hospital.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt attended a match between local Wessex Volleyball team and the London Polonia team based in Ealing, being 4^th best nationally.

Wessex Volleyball are a local club fielding 11 teams for juniors aged 7-19, and senior ladies and mens teams from 19 upwards, playing regularly at Carter Community College in Hamworthy and Talbot Heath Girls School in Bournemouth. They compete in the national England Volleyball League (Div. 1 for the ladies), and hold open sessions on Shore Road beach each summer as part of the Thursday evening festivities.

The Mayor met the senior ladies team, took part in the warm up by lobbing a few balls to the coach and watched part of this first match of 2007, which was important to secure Wessex's chances of winning the League, but unfortunately the local team was narrowly beaten.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I'd love to have a go at volleyball, having played netball for Devon way back in the 70's!!! I have agreed to play in a demonstration game at my Spring Fair in Poole Park on 6^th and 7^th May, but the level of play I saw at this match was daunting!  The team are amazing and I am working with Mr Robin Martin to showcase them at this year's fair. Sport is a great way to socialise and get the most out of the fantastic beaches that we have here in Poole, which is where volleyball is generally played here.  Please put a note in your diary for the fair and come and see a superb exhibition of skill and fitness from the Wessex Volleyball ladies Team".

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Wessex Volleyball Club sponsor Mr Robin Martin at the volleyball match.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with the Wessex Volleyball ladies team and coaches at the volleyball match.

Wessex Volleyball team members in action at the volleyball match.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, attended the AGM of Branksome Park, Canford Cliffs and Sandbanks Neighbourhood Watch.

With the usual formalities over and all the existing officers re-elected for another year, the Mayor congratulated the chairman, Mr Ken Pottle MBE, and gave an enlightening talk about the work of Dorset Police Authority, emphasising the need to work with partners to achieve crime reduction, such as Neighbourhood Watch,  local councils and community organisations. The Mayor and the audience were then treated to a demonstration and description of the latest addition to the police's armoury - the taser gun, which fires an electrical discharge capable of immobilising a person repeatedly without causing any physical risk. This weapon is currently carried only by firearms-qualified officers, but is likely to be rolled out to all police patrols in Dorset in the near future after appropriate training.

Call Mrs. Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said, "Neighborhood Watch is perhaps one of the most successful weapons we have in fighting crime, that of self advocacy, people making their homes and communities safe through their own vigilance and interest. I have to admit that the Canford Cliffs Neighborhood Watch is the vanguard of the Borough, they have worked so hard as a group to ensure that those who live in the area feel safe. I suggested to Mr Pottle that he form a small panel from the members to visit other new and fledgling Neighbourhood Watch groups and share their excellent best practices with them."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mr Robert Syms MP and Mr Ken Pottle MBE outside Canford Cliffs Village Hall at the Neighbourhood Watch AGM.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, presenting a cup for the best local organisation at the Neighbourhood Watch AGM.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, talking with one of the local coordinators at the Neighbourhood Watch AGM.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with ward councillor Neil Sorton at the Neighbourhood Watch AGM.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, the Sheriff, Chief Executive, Councillors, Council officers and supporters, hosted the annual Mayor of Poole's Civic Awards ceremony at the Lighthouse.

In a sparkling evening which was the culmination of many hours and late nights of careful planning and preparation by the Mayor and her faithful secretary, the Mayor began by personally welcoming each of her 370 guests to the event, including the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Mr Anthony Yeatman with his wife Mrs Wendy Yeatman, the Gibraltar Government London representative Mr Albert Poggio OBE and his wife, Mayors and Chairmen of surrounding local authorities, leading businessmen and organisation leaders from in and around Poole, Council Members and Officers.

With all the guests safely seated, the Mayor was announced by M.C. Mr Brian Galpin in his last Civic Awards event before retirement and, having shed her formal robes, entered the dining hall in a stunning carmine red ball gown with train, the same one in which she wowed the audience at a fashion show several months ago (see Mayor's Diary for 21^st September 2006), followed by the Sheriff with his lady. The superb meal comprised home-made chicken liver pate with crisp salad garnish and mini toasted French breads, seared salmon steak with watercress butter sauce and puff pastry fleurons served with market fresh vegetables and minted new potatoes accompanied by home baked onion and olive breads, followed by a delicious raspberry crème brulée with iced palmiers and fresh red fruits, finishing with coffee or tea and tempting hand-made petit fours, all backed by piano music played by Mr Richard McLester (see Mayor's Diary for 16^th January). In another of many variations from tradition, the Mayor ascended the stage to propose the toast to the guests in an amusing speech which also contained some important messages and thanks. The response was made by Mr Richard Dimbleby (NOT the radio announcer!), Chairman of Poole Partnership, who has known the Mayor for many years, complimented her on her innovative, popular and successful term of office, and the Leader and officers of the Council for their prudent management of public finances. He also talked briefly about Poole Partnership and its role in the Borough.

The Mayor, the Mayor's Consort, Sheriff, Chief Executive and the Mayor's secretary then took the stage to present awards of Poole Pottery bowls (possibly the last to be presented?) to each of 7 outstanding award winners from the Poole community, with the Sheriff and Chief Executive reading the citations and the Mayor inviting them on stage to receive their awards. The Mayor was delighted to present awards to Ms Sue Dudfield for her 46 years voluntary service to the Girls Brigade, Mr Roger Tidby for his 30 years dedication to the Green Bowlers Association, Dr Magaret Grundy on behalf of Victim Support Dorset for their unstinting support of victims of crime, Mr Alan Hayward for his 20 years voluntary work at The Cedars helping people with learning difficulties, Mr John Clark, 2^nd  Coxswain of the Poole lifeboat and a crew member for 20 years, Mr Geoff Hare for his 22 years as secretary of Broadstone Boy's Football Club, and Ms Audrey Beall for her 18 years working with the East Dorset Motor Neuron Disease Association.

With the formalities over, the band Pandora Quartet commenced playing live music while the Mayor and her husband led the first dance, and the happy guests variously indulged in dancing, drinking and meeting friends old and new around the hall; a true networking event.  Not until well after midnight did the last of the revellers reluctantly head for home, consigning another brilliant Mayoral evening to a wonderful memory.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "The evening was amazing and I cannot give enough thanks to all the wonderful people who made it such a success.  I really wanted it to be an opportunity for everyone present to get to know the people who live and work so hard in our communities and I feel that through the unstinting and expert advice that I received from my Secretary's Office and other close friends and supporters that between us this was achieved."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with her husband Mr David Butt and the Sheriff and his Lady, greeting the hundreds of guests arriving at the Civic Awards ceremony.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with her husband Mr David Butt and Ms Liz Ferry (left), owner of ‘Curtain-Up' Productions, and Dorset Chief Constable Martin Baker and his wife.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, greets her Charity Committee Chairman Mrs Jackie Maynard.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with her husband Mr David Butt  and East Dorset District Council Chairman Cllr Alex Clarke with his wife.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, greets Poole Housing Partnership Chief Executive Mr Joe Logan.

A dishy sight - Poole Pottery bowls waiting to be presented.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, wearing her stunning ballgown, with her daughter Miss Georgina Butt, mother-in-law Mrs Jessica Butt and VIP guest from Gibraltar Mr Albert Poggio.

The Mayor's daughter Miss Georgina Butt with the Mayor's mother-in-law Mrs Jessica Butt.

The Mayor's son Mr Daniel Butt with his friend Mr Russell McMahon.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, interviewing award winner Mr Alan Hayward during the presentation.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, talks with award winner Mr John Clark during the presentation.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with her husband Mr David Butt help award winner Mr Geoff Hare proudly display his Poole Pottery.

Full House - 370 guests applaud the award winners for their achievements.

Who they were applauding - The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt and her husband Mr David Butt with all 7 of the award winners and their Poole Pottery bowls.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mr Paul Mitchell from Lewis Innovative Investments.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with North Dorset District Council chairman Cllr Lt Col Mike Oliver and his wife.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Canons Nigel Webb and Jane Lloyd (left), Sister Mary Ann Joseph and Mrs Shelagh Moody.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with her ‘Car Boot King', Mr Peter Tarchetti from Poole Council's Transportation Services.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Poole Council's Head of Social Services Mr Charlie Sheldrick.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Mr Anthony Yeatman and his wife Mrs Wendy Yeatman.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mayor of Wandsworth Cllr Jim Maddan.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Poole St John's Ambulance Brigade Superintendent Mr Kelvin Crocker, who works with the ambulance crew who came to the rescue when she was taken ill in November.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with the Mayor of New Sarum (Salisbury) Cllr Mrs Sheila Warrander and her husband.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with PO Jim Welsh, Commanding Officer of Poole Sea Cadets, and his wife.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mr Jonathan Clarke (left), coxswain of Poole lifeboat, and Mr Pip Hall of the Poole Coastguard and his wife.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Marines Major Bob Perry and his wife Mrs Pam Perry.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt and her husband Mr David Butt with award winner Mr John Clarke, proudly displaying his Poole Pottery bowl.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Canford Cliffs community leader Mr Ken Pottle MBE and his wife.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Poole Fishermen's Association leading light Mr Ray Knight and his wife.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mrs Jenny O'Connor and Nick of Poole Council's Refuse and Cleansing team.

The end of a wonderful evening - the Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Charity Committee Secretary Cllr Leo Belcham and personal guest Mr John Duffy.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, opened the newest show town house at Harbour Reach, Shapwick Road, in Hamworthy. They were greeted by Mr Jim Doerr, Associate Director of Goadsby Harding Estate Agents and Mr Malcolm Pink MRICS Regional Managing Director South Region, and representatives from Bryant Homes.

Built by Taylor Woodrow on the former Pilkington's Tile works in Hamworthy, Harbour Reach comprises 261 flats and 79 houses, 115 of which will be affordable homes to be managed by Raglan Housing Association. The site also provides nearly an acre of open space and play provision. Most of the new apartments will have stunning views over Poole Harbour, and the first phase of 65 apartments has already sold out. The opening of the new show house marks the availability of 11 (out of the planned 79) 3- and 4-bedroom town houses, priced from £295,000, 3 of which have already been reserved.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I was stunned by the high quality and spaciousness of these houses in what is admittedly a fairly high density development. The innovative design and layout in order to maximize space and facility is quite an achievement in itself and is well worth a look. I was also highly impressed with the cleanliness of the site, especially as the day before my visit the site had to be closed for safety due to the gale force winds that Poole was subject to. This project, with other regeneration developments planned nearby, will definitely change and lift the whole environment of Lower Hamworthy. A real winner for Poole."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt and her husband Mr David Butt, with senior managers from Taylor Woodrow, Bryant Homes and Goadsby Harding at the opening of the show town house at Harbour Reach.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, cutting a ribbon to declare the new show town house open at Harbour Reach.

The new show town house at Harbour Reach.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt and her husband Mr David Butt, with senior managers outside the new show town house at Harbour Reach.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, tries out a couch in the new show town house at Harbour Reach, only to find her feet didn't reach the floor!

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, met Mr Paul Rickford of Wessex Print to discuss planned literature for forthcoming Mayor's Charity events, including a Town Raffle and the Beating of the Sea Bounds.

Wessex Print Group are a high quality printer of literature and display signs and banners, and are one of the preferred suppliers for Poole Tourism, providing much of the material used to advertise public events in and around Poole. In exchange for acknowledgement as a sponsor, Paul is happy to provide material for the Mayor's Charity events, including car boot banners, Beating of the Sea Bounds flyers and banners, and material for the planned Mayor's Charity Spring Fair.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Paul is an absolute star - much of what we are achieving would be impossible without his generous support."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Mr Paul Rickford of Wessex Print.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt met Mr Vinod Chakrapani and Mr Shalu Chacko in her Parlour to discuss the forthcoming launch of a NHS-based magazine for the Indian community in Dorset.

Serving a community of 162 people from South India living in Poole, Bournemouth, Boscombe and Christchurch, the magazine will be titled ‘Malayalee Pulse' and managed by Mr Vinod Chakrapani, written by the people for the people and will be in their own language of origin. Formed in 2002, the Dorset Malayalee Association (current President Mr Shalu Chacko) has grown from 5-6 families to its present membership of 60 families originating from Kerala in South India. Its objectives are to assist members in integrating into British communities whilst preserving the distinctiveness of their own culture and traditions. Several gatherings are held each year to celebrate British and Indian festivals.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "This fits in extremely well with my own theme for my Mayoralty of supporting self-advocacy. I am very much looking forward to supporting this excellent venture and I wish everyone involved the very best for what I see as a unique and essential provision, especially in the light of our community in Poole growing both in numbers and diversity."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with Mr Vinod Chakrapani (left), Mr Shalu Chacko and Mrs Vinod in her Parlour

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, attended a Quaylinks Social Networking Lunch at Topo Gigio restaurant in Poole.

The event was co-organised and co-hosted by the owner of Topio Gigio and Ms Emma James from D & R Marketing Solutions; a PR and Marketing Company. The Mayor gave a very amusing speech, taking the opportunity to point out the well known stereotype business person, their failings and why we all love or hate them!

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Over 40 business people attended and whilst enjoying the delicious food prepared and served by Topo Gigio they were able to take the opportunity to network and find out more about their individual businesses. The event was a real success and a great relaxed neutral manner in which to meet potential future business partners, to enhance and build on the superb business community that we are already so very proud of in Poole."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with local business people at the Quaylinks Social Networking Lunch.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, accompanied by her husband and Consort Mr David Butt, attended a presentation of ‘The Army For Today' at the Royal Bath Hotel, Bournemouth.

The Army Presentation Team tours the United Kingdom throughout the year, talking to a wide cross-section of opinion formers from within the community about the role played by the British Army in defending the United Kingdom's interests world-wide. The fast moving 45-minute multimedia presentation outlines UK Defence policy and the considerable contribution being made to tri-service and multi-national operations by an efficient, flexible, modern Army.  As well as being informative, the occasion includes a question and answer period after the presentation, and there is also ample opportunity for people to talk to members of the team during the reception at the start of the evening and the complimentary light buffet at the end of the evening. 

The Mayor and her husband were greeted by Brigadier Jolyon Jackson and Colonel Charlie Knaggs OBE in full dress uniform! The guest speaker for the evening was Mrs Valerie Pitt Rivers Lord Lieutenant of Dorset who attended with her husband Anthony.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "It was a superb event. We were treated to an excellent presentation by Brigadier Jolyon Jackson' s personnel from Corporal to Colonel, who in turn took to the stage and gave verbal commentary to a first class pictorial film illustration of the modern army at work, its past, its present and most importantly of all its future. I was very assured to hear that the Army are very mindful of all the vagaries of general government policy and how they have to be extremely flexible to be able to react to these variations at any given time. The evening's presentations were rounded off by an excellent address by the Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Mrs Valerie Pitt Rivers, whose gentle but amusing informal style hit the right note amongst all present. As usual it was like being a three year old in a sweet shop, surrounded by all those uniforms! What's a girl supposed to do?"

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with by her husband Mr David Butt, Lord Lieutenant of Dorset Mrs Valerie Pitt Rivers, Colonel Charlie Knaggs OBE (left) and Brigadier Jolyon Jackson at the Army presentation.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, met Mr Richard McLester and his colleague Mr Mathis Palter in her Parlour to discuss providing piano entertainment at the forthcoming Poole Civic Awards evening.

Richard is a university student, studying German at Bristol University. He is, however, a talented professional musician playing a variety of instruments including drums, piano and his first love, guitar, as well as singing classical tenor. He runs his own recording studio in Parkstone, and is front man for his band ‘Oposium', performing, producing and writing a variety of modern music.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "Richard is an extremely talented young man and I am sure we shall see him one day performing at Carnegie Hall to name but one, I very much look forward to him playing at my Civic Awards Ceremony on Friday."

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, and her secretary Mrs Jo Clements with pianist Mr Richard McLester (left) and his colleague Mr Mathis Palter in her Parlour.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt gave an interview on Hospital Radio Bedside based at Bournemouth Hospital. HRB broadcasts to The Royal Bournemouth, Poole, Poole Maternity, Christchurch and Wimborne hospitals. Founded in 1971, HRB is a self-funding charity, raising money through donations, sponsorship and two charity shops in Boscombe and Parkstone. All the work of running the station is carried by volunteer members, from presenting the shows to organisation and technical work, and of course manning the charity shops.

Having previously met members from HRB at an event during the summer, the Mayor was invited to give a radio interview about ‘The Life and Duties of a Mayor', which she was delighted to accept. Greeted by HRB Vice-President and presenter Jimmy Ross, the Mayor was shown around the station and learned a great deal about how local radio works. She was then interviewed in some depth about her experiences as Mayor of Poole (we plan to make a sound track available on the Mayor's personal diary soon). Asked to choose three songs for the radio show, she selected tracks with particular poignancy and relevance; ‘Wind Beneath My Wings' to acknowledge the unstinting support she has received from her husband and family, friends and colleagues, community leaders and residents during her year in office; ‘Consider Yourself' to illustrate her feelings towards all her supporters; and ‘My Way' to mark her efforts to change Poole into an exemplar of modern Mayoralty.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "At the end of last year when I was so very ill in hospital I tuned into the HRB hospital radio service, it gave me great comfort and very much helped to pass the tedious hours of lying in bed doing absolutely nothing waiting for your body to heal so you can get back to what you really should be doing i.e., my family and Mayoral duties. I asked for a request something by Cliff Richard, being a bit of a fan and they played ‘Living Doll'; no explanation as to why but it certainly cheered me up as has the service to hundreds of thousands over the years!!"

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt and presenter Jimmy Ross choose tracks from the huge CD library during her visit to Hospital Bedside Radio.

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, being interviewed by presenter Jimmy Ross in Studio 2 during her visit to Hospital Bedside Radio

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt met Mr Melih Savasci, a senior Director from the Bank of New York, in her Parlour to discuss their forthcoming opening of a new office in Poole, and to present a cheque on their behalf to the Poole Hospital Wish List.

The new office, which will be located in the former Merck building in Poole, will be used for corporate trust business recently acquired from J. P. Morgan Chase, and will provide a centre of excellence with global impact. Corporate trust providers are appointed by corporations, municipal governments and other loan issuing organisations to service and maintain their corporate loans. Due to open in February, the Bank expect to employ some 200 staff initially, majority of them recruited locally, growing to 350 over the next two years. The Bank is especially keen to play a role in the local communities in Poole, raising its profile by means of charity work and contributions, and the Mayor was able to offer some important suggestions to assist them.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said "I was delighted to be asked to meet with Melih and on his request to advise him regarding our own vibrant town and borough.  He was most keen to learn about the area and to understand our challenges and our attributes.  It is exciting to know that yet another fantastic opportunity is being made available especially for our own young people in Poole regarding a career path with excellent training opportunities and ongoing professional development. With the regeneration of Poole well on the way regarding new housing stock amongst many other initiatives the solid prospect of further employment in Poole must be a great assurance to all our communities".

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt with Mr Melih Savasci and Ms Emma Wright of the Bank of New York in her Parlour

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, attended a champagne breakfast reception to mark the launch of a new breakfast radio show at Radio 2CR FM in Bournemouth. Greeted by the station's PR officer Matt Knott, the Mayor enjoyed an educational whistle-stop tour of the broadcasting studios before joining other VIP guests for the formal launch.

2CR FM broadcasts to Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Dorchester, Weymouth, Swanage and the surrounding area on 102.3 FM, on-line at http://www.2crfm.co.uk/ and on the Bournemouth DAB Digital Radio multiplex, broadcasting around the clock with local programming during the day and early evening. The new show, hosted by Richie and Caroline, broadcasts every weekday morning and does everything possible to wake up its listeners, including a brains test, gossip from the celebrity world from Caroline, Richie showing off his sporting prowess, and ending at 8 am with a competition to improve on the headlines of the day's Echo stories.

Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, Mayor of Poole, said, "2CR go from strength to strength, just when you think they have extended their skills as far as they can, they come up with a bigger and better idea.  It was fascinating to see how the broadcasts are made and delivered and to sit in the presenter's chair.   I will never think of 2CR in the same light again as I can now literally see what is happening as I listen to what must be one of Poole's favorite radio stations".

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, tries a presenter's chair for size during her visit to Radio 2CR FM

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, chats with ‘Mr Kyps' of the live music venue of the same name in Parkstone, during her visit to Radio 2CR FM

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Christchurch MP Christopher Chope during her visit to Radio 2CR FM

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, with Richie, co-host of the new breakfast radio show, during her visit to Radio 2CR FM

The Mayor of Poole, Cllr Mrs Judy Butt, was presented with a ‘goodie bag' by the station's PR officer Matt Kott, during her visit to Radio 2CR FM