Bringing communities together

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 800^th 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