As you may be aware I am a firm believer that the
more we can encourage communities to come together, the stronger and happier
they become. I am delighted that earlier this week we provided a unique
opportunity for all the communities from across Wiltshire to come together to
celebrate and be part of the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the
Magna Carta.
Hundreds of people took part in the procession
through the streets of Salisbury, with thousands lining the street to enjoy the
spectacle. Each of our 18 community areas was colourfully represented, carrying
their banners, each outlining their interpretation of the spirit of Magna
Carta, as well as their own “baron” – a 9ft-high puppet decorated by the
communities they represented.
These great giants danced their way through the
streets of the city, arriving at Salisbury Cathedral, which as you probably
know is home to the best-preserved copy of the Magna Carta.
The weather was fantastic and there was vibrant samba
music, beautiful singing from community choirs, fabulous dancers including
Morris men – in fact the city had a real carnival atmosphere. It was a wonderful
event and I really was very proud of all those who helped to put the event
together and those who participated and showed just how diverse and vibrant our
local communities are.
The evening concluded with the pyrotechnic display
with all 18 of the barons, as well as an additional character – even taller
than the barons - Lady Justice; representing the spirit of justice in
Wiltshire. With her dress embossed with iconic images of Wiltshire, she carried
a flaming torch to light our way into the future. It really was a spectacle.
I was also asked by the media what I would want
reflected in a modern version of the Magna Carta. My response is that this is a
county that puts the community, the economy and vulnerable people
first. It prides itself on being transparent, honest and open in the
approach it takes to communities working with the public sector. What we have
is a beautiful, healthy, active, creative and enterprising county where
partnership working and support for the community is revolutionary – we grow
stronger and stronger, and together we make Wiltshire a better place – and this
week we proved that!
Next week I’m looking forward to the second curry and quiz night in aid of Hope for Tomorrow, a
charity dedicated to bringing mobile chemotherapy units to the county, in order
to make treatment more accessible to cancer patients living in rural
communities.
The last
one was great fun and this time we’re holding the event at City Hall, in
Salisbury, on Wednesday 24 June, from 5.30pm to 9.30pm. I’m sure it will be a
great night, with a good curry courtesy of Hox brasserie – and all for a great
cause. I think there are a few tickets left if you haven’t already signed up
your team. Be great to see you.
Jane
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