Friday 4 May 2012

It’s been a busy but hugely exciting time since I last managed to sit down and write my last blog.

2012 – A Year of Celebration is in full swing and started in style with the fantastic Diamond Jubilee Celebration Event in Salisbury on Tuesday.

The day was a great success. It brought all the community areas together. I was incredibly proud that Her Royal Highness the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited eight of the medieval-style tents each showcasing one of our community areas. They both saw just how interesting our county is as they viewed everything from Pewsey’s Wiltshire-horned sheep to Westbury’s prehistoric sea reptile fossil!

We were overwhelmed by the number of staff who wanted to be part of this historic day and helped to make it run as smoothly as possible. I have to say a huge thank you to all of you who braved the elements and were there on the day. It’s a testament to the great job you all did that as I walked around Cathedral Close I saw so many happy, smiley and contented people in the crowds.  It was a long day but all the hard work from everyone involved was really appreciated.

It may have been torrential rain in the morning but as soon as the Queen arrived at Salisbury Train Station the sun came out and families from across the county attended and enjoyed everything from battle re-enactments to Morris dancing. It really was a very special occasion and one I, and I know thousands of others, will never forget.

This year is all about making memories and creating a legacy and this happened when Wiltshire communities came together to celebrate and showcase what they do so well. The event received huge media coverage and really put us in the spotlight.

There will be plenty more happening soon, as no doubt you are aware the Olympic Torch comes to Wiltshire in a little over two weeks and we have our festival of celebration taking place in Salisbury on July 11. There is so much still to plan and lots to look forward to.

We’re extremely privileged as the Olympic Torch is coming in and out of our county for two legs of its relay around the country. This will be another opportunity for us as a council to really showcase Wiltshire and all the great things it has to offer.

This week we were able to confirm Wretch 32 as LOCOG’s main headline act at the 2012 Festival of Celebration in Hudson’s Field. Now I can’t say I’m overly familiar with his music but I know a lot of people are really pleased he’ll be there.  You never know, after hearing his performance, I may be first in line to buy his new album! Already confirmed to perform at the festival are the Shine 4 Wiltshire winners the Salisbury Plain Military Wives Choir and the bands These Days and City Stereo. We’ll be confirming lots more exciting acts soon so please keep checking the festival website www.wiltshire.gov.uk/festivalofcelebration

Finally I’d like to say thank you for all of your hard work during this busy and important time for the county and I look forward to updating you again very soon.

Jane