Horwich Advertiser Issue 634

Page 4 April 2026 AD SALES 01204 478812 THE MAYOR’S DIARY In the last of her monthly reflections, Victoria Rigby looks back at her year as the town’s first citizen 10 11 Monday Tuesday The Mayor’s Diary SUCH A REAL HONOUR AND A PRIVILEGE TO be able to serve as mayor of Horwich over the past year has been an incredible honour and a privilege that I will remember for the rest of my life. Throughout the year, I have had the pleasure of attending a wide range of events across our community, from celebra- tions and showcases, to fund- raisers and commemorations. Each invitation has offered a unique opportunity to witness first-hand the dedication, gen- erosity, and community spirit that makes Horwich such as special place. I have been continuously inspired by the individuals, volunteers, and organisations, who work tirelessly to sup- port others and bring people together. Whether through music, sport, education, or charitable work, the passion and commitment on display at every event has been truly remarkable. It has been particularly rewarding to see so many people giving their time and energy to make a positive dif- ference, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to share in those moments and represent our town. A highlight of my year has definitely been the opening Saturday 14thMarch I WAS invited to the Baitul Aziz Community Centre – formerly the Jones Street Clinic – to join them for ‘The Big Iftar’. Tuesday 24thMarch I HAD the pleasure of attending the Bolton Music Service Children’s Spring Showcase at the Victoria Hall in Bolton. It was a fantastic evening of music, featuring orchestras, choirs, percussion, and string ensembles, all performed by incredibly talented children from across our borough. Saturday 28thMarch I WAS delighted to attend the mayor of Blackrod’s charity ball. Held at Luciano’s at the Chapel in Blackrod. The evening was a great success with over £1,800 raised. of several Horwich Heritage exhibitions. I really believed I knew everything there is to know about our town, and they have proven me wrong time and again! Each exhibition taught me some- thing new and I have loved discovering the history of our town. Another highlight is definitely moments that con- nected me back to growing up here, such as assemblies and the summer fete at my old pri- mary school: Horwich Parish. Going back to my old school was a trip down memory lane and it was so special to be able to go back there. It isn’t just visiting the school that has made these connections, even when attending other events, I have met past teachers from both primary and secondary school and it was great to be able to catch up with them. Of course, a very proud part of my year including attend- ing all the events hosted by Horwich and Blackrod Com- munity Events CIC. Outside of my mayoral duties, I am one of the directors of the CIC and it was so special to be able to attend these events, not just as one of the organ- isers, but as the mayor and have the opportunity to meet and speak with so many of our local residents. A big part of my mayoral year includes fundraising for my chosen charities: Horwich Foodshare, Fortalice, and Teenage Cancer Trust. All three are charities that mean a great deal to me and I am honoured to have the opportunity to raise funds for them. In November, I teamed up with the mayor of Blackrod to host a Rodeo charity night. It was a fantastic night with a Dolly Parton tribute, Ameri- can inspired food, games, and line dancing. The night overall raised almost £2,000 for our charities combined – way more than we could have ever expected! I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who invited me to events throughout the year. Your kindness and hospitality have meant so much to me, and I am truly grateful to have been welcomed into so many mean- ingful occasions. I would also like to say a very warm thank you to the team at The Advertiser for giving me a space to keep our community updated on what I have been up to throughout the year. As my time as mayor comes to a close, I look back with great pride and appreciation for all that I have experienced. Horwich is a town defined by its strong sense of community, and it has been a true honour to serve it.