Over the last year so many of our neighbours have found it difficult to cope during the long periods of isolation during the COVID-19 Pandemic. And yet there is so much to do on offer here in Tamworth. There are more volunteer groups and volunteers per head of population here in Tamworth than in the rest of Staffordshire. So, I decided to bring these two together now the country has fully unlocked from the pandemic, and that is why last Thursday, we saw my Seniors’ Fair come to fruition in the wonderful St Editha’s Church.
The event exceeded all expectations. Running an event that has never been done before in our town could have seen snags along the way – however the Fair went really well. From exhibitors like Specsavers, the Gym, Tamworth History Group, Tamworth Have a Heart and over 30 total more. I would be remiss to not mention the fantastic effort by the Peel Society who came dressed in authentic Metropolitan Police uniforms from when our own Sir Robert Peel, who founded the Force.
I particularly wanted to thank Morrison’s who provided free tea and coffee all day – Tash and Jane kept us all going. We are still tallying the final numbers of people who came through the door, and it is looking like it attracted at least 400 people! The Fair was also important to the exhibitors too. Remember that for over a year, a great many local clubs and societies have suffered through lack of events and funds. The event helped breathe life and support back into them too.
The Fair could not have gone ahead without the hard work of the team at St Editha’s (Gwen, Dawn and Bryony) and of course the team in my office (Katie, Tereasa, Leonie, Marcus and James) – thank you to all of you. The overwhelming feeling from both residents, charity groups, organisations and clubs was that they want another Fair next year – all I will say is watch this space!
I am keen to hear feedback: we have had some really positive messages in our comments box from residents and stallholders such as:
“Thoroughly enjoyed the fair, great idea after the lockdown. Found groups I didn’t know about. Well done. Thank you!”
“ Superb – very informative, helpful people, plenty of ideas to study, undertake, participate. This sort of day’ should be followed up and widely advertised. Well done to all!”
“We really valued today. In many respects it was too successful. We had 36 people sign up for information and the date of the first meeting, and 2 new speakers for our events. So thank you I hope you achieved what you wanted”
Do let me know your thoughts – perhaps even use the chance to write to the Editor of the Herald with your ideas. Again, thank you to everyone who was involved and thank you for coming.
