I once joked at council that I was a man of few words, but most know that is not true. I have lots to say on most things and am very passionate about politics. When I was asked to write 450 words I was therefore happy, however there was big however – we are in the run up to the Heworth by-election and therefore I could not be political! It was like writing an article on England’s performance in the Ashes without being able to use the words shambles, embarrassment or unprofessional.
Representing Copmanthorpe as Ward Councillor is a huge honour and that is about the place and the people, which go together. I am on the Parish Council (one vacancy if you are interested!) and also a school governor at Copmanthorpe Primary. I am also a tiny cog on the day of our fantastic carnival and at the Coptoberfest beer festival. Over Christmas we had a brilliant Santa’s Grotto at the Methodist Church – for two years I have helped the set up and clear away, but never been seen when Santa was there. I ‘imagine’ Santa will have found the children and parents and the things they had to say, a true delight. We have a huge amount based around ‘The Rec’ which is the heart of village sport and much more, from comedy to a drop in for carers. Then there are scouts, guides, the WI , too much to mention!
We had brilliant new Christmas Lights, thanks in particular to Steve which have greatly improved the village. But also for many years we had a hugely diligent team working on the recently approved Neighbourhood Plan, not glamorous or exciting, but making a huge difference to village planning.
Even Christmas Eve didn’t see ‘Chief Womble’ Les give his volunteers a day off as they were out in the village doing jobs from litter picking to sweeping leaves to mending things. I have only managed to go out once, I will make sure it is more next year!
None of these events happen by chance, but by people getting involved and then they massively reduce loneliness which I believe is one of the worst things of all.
Volunteering or getting involved really is the most wonderful thing to do, wherever you are or whatever you are into. I enjoy serving someone a pint at Coptoberfest and the banter but I get a different but equal fulfilment from helping someone with a council issue that doesn’t interest me (or probably them) but matters.
