Councillor Winter’s Monthly Update – August 2023
In July, I was delighted to participate in welcoming our Twinning partners from Lexington, USA. In this Annual Youth Student Exchange programme with our sister city, we received a delegation of American teenagers, generously hosted by the Great Western Heath Court Hotel. This year, we learned from past mistakes and offered them pizza instead of afternoon tea of scones and jam – something that had somewhat bemused the previous visitors. Thanks go to Newmarket Academy for planning such a wonderful programme of activities for them during their stay.
I’ve been out and about around the town helping to promote Newmarket’s Independents’ Day – part of a campaign for National Retailers Week to spotlight and support the independent vendors who keep our High Street and surrounding areas diverse and interesting. I visited many of our shops and stores, alongside BID manager Natalie Robinson – I’m sure you will have seen pictures of us holding the giant pink and blue banner posted across social media sites. We should all try to support these businesses and spend some of our money in them wherever possible. Of course, we should try to support all the retailers, as we have lost so many of our beloved shops. The convenience of internet shopping and increases in parking charges have played their part in this.
I would like to convey my congratulations to the Bedford Lodge Hotel, who celebrated the 10th anniversary of their excellent Spa facilities last month.
May I please reiterate to dog owners and walkers that the Heath is not safe for taking their animals for exercise until after 1pm Monday to Saturday, and after 11am on Sunday? Horses take priority before these times, and Jockey Club Estates do not wish to have either the horses and their riders, or individuals with their dogs, to be put at additional risk. Please also follow the signs at the bottom of the Heath for permitted routes.
Free summer events in the gardens behind the Memorial Hall have begun. Kindly note that adults must be in attendance and remain responsible for their child at all times. Do come along on a Thursday afternoon and enjoy some crafting, magic & puppet shows, a bouncy castle, and much more. Bring a swimsuit and towel in case they want to venture onto the ever-popular splashpad. The Tailor Trailer is parked up in the corner all summer for you to purchase drinks and snacks, and an additional ice cream van will be at the Fitzroy Street end of the garden on event days.
We can host some of the entertainment inside if the weather is wet, so do come along regardless. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for the schedule and last minute updates.
Best wishes,
Philippa Winter