Mayor's blog

Civic Awards  

In August, I decided to open the Mayors Parlour, to meet the recipients of this year’s Civic Awards as the ceremony in March could not take place as normal. 

This year things are being done differently including the Civic Award ceremony.  As I met with people individually rather than the usual ceremony, I was able to have quality one on one conversations with winners and their guests. I loved talking with people on a more person level – at a distance of course.  

It has been just wonderful- sometimes full of fun and laughter, sometimes quite moving and humbling, but every single person has been a joy to meet. I feel very privileged to be your Mayor, and to meet people in our community who have contributed so much. 

There are highlights, like Kika, the guide dog accompanying Dr Amit Patel, and the family of the amazing Vera O’Brien. The wonderfully positive and energetic Black Female Entrepreneur Group, the Afyah organisation, and the amazing Victoria Maynard, husband Phil and daughter Sophie. 

There are too many to write in one blog. I will always remember how lucky I have been to meet such energetic and selfless individuals, living right amongst us. Further details of the recipients can be found on the Royal Greenwich Twitter feed and also in Greenwich Info. 

In memoriam 

I am honoured to have been able to stand alongside some of our veterans, as we remembered VJ Day. On 15 August, we commemorated the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, which was the end of WW2. How different our lives might have been had victory not been won. We certainly owe a lot to those generations before us. 

During this time, we also owe a huge debt to the frontline and key workers, who support and care for us, especially in the coronavirus pandemic.  

Thanks to artist and sculptor Luke Jerram for the flag installation on Woolwich Common. Each flag represents a victim of the pandemic. Attending the opening night reception was truly moving and thought-provoking. 

Slowly emerging  

It feels like a slow step into the public arena for this Mayor!  I’m still very cautious, and there are many precautions to consider, but I must say it is wonderful to be able to pay visits to some community groups.  

I attended the AHOY Centre where I was pleased to present two youngsters with their powerboat licences and was also treated to sail on the Thames in the capable hands of two students.  

I have been ‘out’ to two receptions, and to a meeting with residents. It’s amazing how much can be done, even with all the restrictions.  

This makes us all realise how important the company of other people is. 

School re-opening 

Along with my own tentative steps into the community, our children who have been out of school for so long, are now back into classrooms. Schools have changed since they last stepped foot inside; surfaces are being sanitised, playing in playgrounds in a different way and having lunches staggered times. Thank you to the teachers and staff who have gone that extra mile to make sure safety is key.   

As a retired Headteacher, I understand the logistics needed to finally reach this stage. Our schools have been open throughout for the children of our key workers, but to now have the whole school community together again is a huge step and a massively positive one for pupils. Well done to everyone who has helped make this happen in a safe way. 

Takes our breath away  

This has been a big month in taking the steps to a new normal. We’re extremely proud in Greenwich, not only because we are the best place to live, work and grow up, but we are at the front of initiatives guaranteed to bring communities together and build on positivity.  

This month we have had the Greenwich and Docklands International Festival (GDIF) taking place. Along with fellow Councillors, we have been privileged to attend many different events in Royal Greenwich. 

My daughter and I attended an event on Monday 31 August on Woolwich Common set against the backdrop of Luke Jerram's work. The performance included dance, poetry and music. There was a reading of Nye Bevan vision for the National Health Service in 1952. The performance concluded with the Greenwich and Lewisham NHS choir. It was so moving and yes - there were tears. 

As if that’s not enough, I have been a part of the unforgettable Gaia experience at the Old Royal Naval College. It was a breath-taking installation, by the same artist. 

We can celebrate being the first borough to hold community festivals, and we can thank the organisers of GDIF, who made this happen. Where else but in Greenwich? 

Footnote 

This has been a truly emotional time for all of us, and I have been really moved by the civic award winners’ stories, festival performances and our children going back to school. 

I wanted to make readers of this blog smile a little. There are many photos of me in this blog. I wonder if any sharp eyes can pick up how many different pairs of shoes I’m wearing. Guesses can be sent to the Mayor’s office via mayor@royalgreenwich.gov.uk. 

And Finally ...
Not wishing to sound repetitive but don’t forget your contributions to the Greenwich Covid-19 Memory book we are publishing – all contributions are  welcome – I want to record your thoughts and experiences of

this unique time for future generations to share. 

Councillor Linda Bird, Mayor of Royal Greenwich