Recent Civic Events

Civic Reception - Thursday 28 April 2011

The Civic Reception was held on Thursday 28 April 2011 at H G Wells Conference and Events Centre in Woking to mark the end of the Mayoral year.

Over 270 invited guests joined the Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Mohammed Iqbal and Mrs Shahnaz Iqbal, including the Freemen of the Borough, Member of Parliament, Ex-Service and Uniform organisations along with general organisations from Woking. The Mayor delivered his end of year speech followed by the presentation of the 2011 Eminent Citizen Award to Brigadier (Rtd) Muslim Salamat DL for his tireless work for the community.

Since retiring in 1984, Brigadier Salamat has been involved in Woking Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club, Woking Rotary Club, he was a Trustee of the Management Committee of CAB, Police Liaison, he was Chairman of the Shah Jahan Mosque Administration Committee and is now a Trustee of the Mosque.

Brigadier Salamat is a devout Muslim. When he arrived in Woking in 1984, the Mosque was in a considerable state of disrepair and was controlled by trustees based in London.

The Brigadier, using his rank, seniority, experience and well-earned respect, has been a unifying influence. He persuaded trustees to form an administration committee and to take some local representatives onto the Trust. He has now been a Trustee for seven years.

The Brigadier has overseen a major refurbishment of The Mosque and the buy-back of a lease of a building - which has been transformed into prayer halls and multipurpose sports and cultural use, as well as kitchens and toilets.

The Brigadier is the senior lay Muslim in Woking and, apart from unifying the Muslim community, he has made great progress in unifying the whole borough. He is very well respected for his community work and is highly valued.

Congratulations to the Brigadier who is a well deserved winner.

The Mayor also presented the Young People's Civic Awards to the following winners:-

Outstanding Contribution to the Community to Catherine Jelly, a valued member of Woking Youth Council who has helped to build a strong connection between Woking High School and Woking Youth Council during her time as a Youth Councillor. Catherine has also helped to set up a young carers group for students at Woking High School. A very generous young lady, Catherine has been giving a number of hours of her time to volunteer at St Peter's Hospital, providing a friendly face on one of the wards for people to talk to. Catherine has also given up her free time on numerous occasions to help with fundraising activities, and is currently in preparation for Woking Hospice's Midnight Walk.

Outstanding Achievement to Tobias Brewer who attends Winston Churchill School and is a talented gymnast. Tobias's area of specialism is Artistic Gymnastics which includes many disciplines and requires the mastering of all gym equipment. A member of Woking Gym Club, Tobias trains four nights a week and most weekends, still managing to keep on top of his school work. Tobias's dedication has enabled him to reach a high level of competition and he has recently been competiting in many national championships. Tobias's results have been stunning in the last year, including finishing an outstanding third in the Nationals, and achieving overall sixth in the English Championships with a bronze on the floor. In the Thomas Wilson Competition, Tobias achieved an impressive second overall, receiving gold on the floor, gold on the parallel bars, silver on the pommel horse, silver on the rings and bronze on the high bar.

Triumph over Adversity to Jack Bradley who attends St John the Baptist Catholic School, was born with a condition called fibula hemimelia, which meant that his right leg was shorter and turned inwards. Jack has demonstrated remarkable courage, perservering with this condition throughout his life and remaining positive and cheerful as he recuperates from corrective surgery. Despite having to spend time away from school, Jack is a diligent student and he achieved some fantastic SATS scores in Year 6. Jack's optimistic and determined attitude is truly inspirational and he sets a shining example to other children about coping with adversity.

Congratulations to all our award winners!!

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Ball - Saturday 5 March 2011

The Civic Ball was held on Saturday 5 March 2011 at H G Wells Conference and Events Centre in Woking.

Guests enjoyed a four course meal and danced the night away to music from a lively band.

The Auction, Grand Draw and Tombola with prizes donated by the local business and retail community raised money in aid of the Mayor's Charity.

The Mayor was delighted with the amount raised and would like to thank everyone who donated prizes and supported this event.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 14 November 2010

Despite the rain young and old gathered to pay their respects at the Service of Remembrance on Sunday 14 November 2010.

The British Airways Band led the parade to the Town Square and was joined by soldiers from 2nd Training Regiment ATC Pirbright in one of the largest parades seen in the town supported by Surrey Army Cadet Force Corps of Drums .

The Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Association, Royal Air Force Association and the Ghurkhas all marched with pride to the Town Square with the youth groups from the Army, Sea and Air Cadets, Guides, Scouts, Cubs, Brownies, Boys and Girls Brigade.

The Mayor and Mayoress and members of the civic procession were joined by hundreds of people who gathered around the war memorial in the Town Square to remember those who died in the two world wars and in the various battles and conflicts since that have brought about loss of life.

Georgia Hutchinson from Woking Youth Council took the first reading `In Flanders Fields' as members of Woking's youth received a personal poppy from the veterans on parade and placed on the memorial in a symbolic act of remembrance.

Reverend Dr Peter Harwood led the open air service and gave an excellent address.

The Imam from Shah Jahan Mosque read the Prayers of Intercessions along with the Derek Wade the Moderator of Churches Together in Woking.

Members from Woking Choral Society, Epworth Choir and The Bisley Ladies Choir formed a combined choir to support the hymns and national anthem.

Bugler Lance Corporal Sher from the Band of the Brigade of Ghurkhas played the last post overlooking the Town Square as the town fell silent for 2 minutes at 11am.

The Mayor laid the first wreath followed by the Royal British Legion and many service organisations and individuals as Bisley Ladies Choir sang hymns, accompanied by the Salvation Army Band in what was a very moving ceremony.

At the end of the service as the parade marched out of the Town Square along Church Street East the Mayor took the salute and inspected the standards. The Mayor felt very proud to see so many veterans, soldiers and young people on parade with so many members of the public who turned out to honour those who gave their lives. We will remember them.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Service - Sunday 27 June 2010

The Civic Service was held for the first time at the Shah Jahan Mosque, Oriental Road, Woking, for the Mayor & Mayoress of Woking, Councillor Mohammed Iqbal and Mrs Shahnaz Iqbal.

The community service takes place every year for each new elected Mayor.

The Mayor and Civic Procession was led by Superintendent Rachel Hills from Surrey Police and the High Commissioner of Pakistan, His Excellency Wajid Shamsul Hasan joined the VIP guests including The High Sheriff of Surrey, Mr Rob Douglas, Freeman of the Borough, Mr David Robinson MBE, TD, JP, DL, Woking's Member of Parliament, Mr Jonathan Lord, Visiting Mayors from Surrey, Past Chairman and Past Mayors of Woking, Members of the Council, County Councillors and Surrey Magistrates.

Standards from ex-service and uniform organisations lined the entrance to the mosque to greet the Mayor and Civic Procession on their arrival.

This was the first visit to the mosque for many of the guests who attended the service, which included personal guests of the Mayor, representatives from the community, uniform, ex-service and youth organisations and a selection of voluntary and general organisations.

The Imam Hashmi from the Shah Jahan Mosque led the service and was joined by Professor Nasim, the Head of Education.

The Mayor took the first reading and a 17 year old young man Dawood Mehmood performed a musical arrangement of traditional Nasheeds (songs) which was enjoyed by all.

Taking part in the Prayers for the Community were Derek Wade, Moderator of Churches Together, Rev Jonny Blair, Woking People of Faith, Dr Naqvi from Al Asr Woking, Naveed Razaq from the Muslim Community Centre and Mohammed Yakub from the Surrey Islamic Trust.

In the last reading Mr Yakub spoke about trying to establish a friendship and live in harmony with our friends and neighbours, irrespective of faith, religion and race, then we can have a peaceful society and this is the fundamental message of Islam only if we can follow it. His words were echoed around the prayer hall in this historic mosque we have on our doorsteps.

The collection at the end of service was donated to the Mayor's chosen charities Woking Hospice and Diabetes UK .

Rod Fraser from the Royal Naval Association acted as parade marshal and was very impressed with the service, he recently arranged for his veteran colleagues to visit the Shah Jahan Mosque to find out more about the Muslim community.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Reception - Friday 23 April 2010

The Civic Reception was held on Friday 23 April 2010 at H G Wells Conference and Events Centre to mark the end of the Mayoral year.

Over 270 invited guests joined the Mayor and her Consort, Councillor Christina Liddington and Mr Steven Dodd, including the Freeman of the Borough, Ex-Service and Uniform organisations, general voluntary and health organisations from Woking. The Mayor delivered her end of year speech followed by the presentation of the 2010 Eminent Citizen Award to Jose Barrett for her outstanding contribution to the community.

In 1994, Jose started volunteering for Woking Talking Newspaper and was welcomed to their committee in February 1996 by the then Chairman, Tony Ellis. Jose has been a committee member since that time, taking on the role of Secretary in 2001. Jose continues in that role today. As well as the secretarial role, she is one of the three administation team leaders whose job is to maintain the register of listeners and to ensure that the weekly issues are correct.

Jose also works at Woking Citizens Advice Bureau and started as a volunteer in administation in 1994. Jose does all the printing and training packs for Caroline Ashford, the Guidance Tutor, who says that Jose knows more about the updates than she ever will. Jose is invaluable to the smooth running of the training programme. Jose also works in a voluntary capacity at St Peter's Hospital in the Rowley Bristow Unit Administration Section.

Congratulations to Jose who is a well deserved winner.

The Mayor also presented the Young People's Civic Awards, now in its 14th year, to the following winners:-

This year, two local young people were recognised in the Outstanding Contribution to the Community category due to the high standard of nominations received.

Andrew Davey helps to manage The Cabin and was involved in the club's initial setting up a year ago. The Cabin meets once a week at The Vyne in Knaphill and forms a central part of the youth activities in the area, giving the young people of Knaphill a fun, safe place to meet. Andrew attends monthly meetings and project manages special events, such as pool tournaments. Andrew's dedication and commitment on a weekly basis has been invaluable to the success of The Cabin.

Amritha Vadi attends Winston Churchill School and is an enthusiastic and helpful student who gives her time and energy freely. By organising a cake sale, Amritha has raised money for Woking Hospice, and she has fundraised for Cancer Research by taking part in the Race for Life walk. Amritha has used her artistic talents to create a piece of art in aid of the Starlight Wish Foundation, which makes wishes come true for children with terminal illnesses, and her painting was chosen to be hung at the Saatchi Gallery in London and prints of her painting raised £450. Always willing to lend a helping hand, Amritha has applied forvoluntary work to read to children at the White Lodge Centre, and a place has been reserved for her when she is 16.

Outstanding Achievement to Scott Bailey who attends Winston Churchill School has been playing ice hockey for five years for the Guildford Junior Ice Hockey Club. Last year, Scott was put forward by his club coaches for England team trials, along with 90 children from across England. Scott was successful in the trials and he secured a sought after place on the England Under 13s Ice Hockey Team. As part of the England Team, Scott travelled to Quebec City in Canada earlier this year to compete in the World Championships of Pee Wee Hockey against 16 other countries. Scott is a dedicated ice hockey player and travels to many late night training sessions across the country, training on the ice until midnight.

Triumph over Adversity to Joel Ireland who attends Woking High School, is a registered young carer and has proved himself to be an invaluable support to his mother, who is wheelchair-bound. Joel looks after his mother and helps with the cooking and cleaning. Despite the extra demands on his home life, Joel is a diligent student who always manages to keep on top of his school work, and he is a highly respected member of his school's ICT prefect team.

Congratulations to all our award winners!!

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Ball - Saturday 6 March 2010

The Civic Ball was held on Saturday 6 March 2010 at H G Wells Conference and Events Centre in Woking.

Over 220 invited guests attended the ball which included the High Sheriff of Surrey, Deputy Mayor of Rastatt, and Visiting Mayors from Surrey. The guests enjoyed a four course meal and danced the night away to music from China Grove.

The Auction, Grand Draw and Tombola raised a total amount of £5,221 during the evening for the Mayor's chosen charities, Link Leisure, Woking Branch of the Alzheimer's Society and Woking Community Action Fund, who all support some of the most vulnerable people from our community.

The Mayor was delighted with the amount raised and would like to thank everyone who donated prizes and supported this event.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Concert - Woking Sings - Sunday 7 February 2010

The Civic Concert 'Woking Sings' entertained a large audience including the Mayor, the High Sheriff of Surrey, Visiting Mayors of Surrey and many more who all thoroughly enjoyed the evening at the New Victoria Theatre.

Rainer Hersch compered the concert and captured the audience with his quick wit and comedy approach encouraging the audience participation.

The performance of the primary school choir was delightful and for some of the 160 children it was their first timeon a big stage in a theatre. The Surrey Youth Choir followed andthe Mayor felt very proud of the talented young people from our community.

It was a wonderful experience to listen to the orchestra, the lead choir and the giant choir who finished the concert with a very rousing Land of Hope and Glory and a standing ovation.

The Civic Concert provided an opportunity to raise the profile of the Mayor's chosen charities, Link Leisure, Woking Branch of the Alzheimer's Society and Woking Community Action Fund who all support some of the most vulnerable people from our community and managed to raise £835 from the bucket collection.

The Mayor would like to thank everyone who participated in this unique event and for the very generous donations made for her charities.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 8 November 2009

Young and old gathered to pay their respects at the Service of Remembrance on Sunday 8 November 2009.

Service organisations led by the British Airways Band were joined by soldiers from 2nd Training Regiment ATC Pirbright in one of thelargest parades seen in the town supported by SurreyArmy Cadet Force Corps of Drums who werepositioned at the rear.

The Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Association, Royal Air Force Association, Gurkhas all marched with pride to the Town Square with the youth groups from the Army, Sea, Air Cadets, Guides, Scouts, Cubs, Brownies, Boys and Girls Brigade.

The Mayor her Consort and members of the civic procession were joined by hundreds of people who gathered around the war memorial in the Town Square to remember those who died in the two world wars and in the various battles and conflicts since that have brought about loss of life.

Catherine Jelly from Woking Youth Council took the first reading 'In Flanders Fields' as members of Woking's youth received a personal poppy from the veterans on parade and placed on the memorial in a symbolic act of remembrance.

Reverend Dr Peter Harwood led the open air service and the Bishop of Guildford, The Rt ReverendChristopher Hill gave an excellent address.

Brigadier Muslim Salamat represented the Shah Jahan Mosque and read the Prayers of Intercessions along with the Mayor's Chaplain, Reverend Nick Grew.

Members from Woking Choral Society, Epworth Choir and The Bisley LadiesChoir formed a combined choir to support the hymns and national anthem.

Bugler Corporal David Forshaw from the Surrey Army Cadet Force played the last post and the Town fell silent for 2 minutes.

Photographs provided by Woking News and Mail.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Service - Sunday 28 June 2009

The Civic Service was held at Holy Trinity Church, Knaphill, for the Mayor of Woking, Councillor Christina Liddington and her Consort Mr Steve Dodd. The community service takes place every year for each new elected Mayor.

Rev Nick Grew, the Mayor's Chaplain and Vicar of Holy Trinity Church Knaphill and St Saviour's Brookwood, lead the ecumenical service.

The Mayor and Civic Procession was led by Chief Superintendent Helen Collins from Surrey Police and the VIP guests included The Freeman of the Borough, Mr David Robinson MBE, TD, JP, DL, Woking's Member of Parliament, Mr Humfrey Malins CBE, Chairman of Surrey County Council, Visiting Mayors from Surrey, Past Chairman and Past Mayors of Woking, Members of the Council, County Councillors and Surrey Magistrates.

Standards from ex-service and uniform organisations, scouts, beavers and guides lined the entrance to the church to greet The Mayor and procession on their arrival. A fanfare was delivered by the Fanfare team of The Band of the Adjutant General's Corps as the Civic Procession entered the church.

Over 250 guests attended the service, which included personal guests of the Mayor, representatives from the uniform, ex-service and youth organisations and a selection of voluntary and general organisations.

Brigadier Salamat of the Shah Jahan Mosque and Derek Wade the Deputy Moderator for Churches Together in Woking participated in the Prayers for the Community along with Raj Chhetri from Woking One World organisation, Phra Sarttra Thirapanyo from the Dhammakaya Centre for Buddhist Meditation and Lesley Pitt from Link Leisure.

Woking's Young Musician of the Year, Emmanuel Bach who plays the violin gave an excellent performance of Aria Suite in D by J S Bach and was accompanied on the piano by his mother Jenny Stern. In between readings a saxophone group from Surrey Arts delivered a lively performance of Welcome Dance and Stranger in Paradise directed by their teacher Andrea Morris.

The organist for the service was provided by Ivor Hunt and local singers formed an adult choir under the direction of Anne Ansell who performed with the dignity deserving of such an occasion.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Reception - Friday 24 April 2009

The Civic Reception was held on Friday 24 April 2009 at H G Wells Conference & Events Centre to mark the end of the Mayoral year.

Over 270 invited guests joined the Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Peter Ankers and Mrs Gill Ankers, including the Freeman of the Borough, Member of Parliament, Ex-Service and Uniform organisations along with general organisations from Woking.

The Mayor delivered his end of year speech followed by the presentation of the 2009 Eminent Citizen Award to Clive Moon for his outstanding contribution to the community.

Clive became involved in sport locally and in 1990 became manager of Woking Boys Football Club. In 1995 Clive started coaching cricket at Woking & Horsell Cricket Club and then became secretary. He stepped down from this position two years ago but still umpires for the 1st team every Saturday and also umpires for the Surrey under 9's County Cricket Team. Through the cricket club Clive became involved with Sport Woking (formerly Woking Sports Council) and took up the role of Chairman five years ago. Clive was also Chairman of the Leisure Centre User Panel.

Since his retirement Clive became Chairman and is now Treasurer with Just advocacy which is a charity that helps adults with learning disabilities. Clive has also become involved with WAVS and is a Trustee. He started an initiative to encourage sports clubs to become involved with WAVS and now his continuing work with WAVS will see Clive become involved in the establishment of the Surrey Credit Union (Surrey Save), which is also supported by Woking Borough Council. Clive has been a Trustee of the Maybury Centre for approximately four years and took over as Chairman three years ago. Clive also volunteers as a teaching assistant for adult literacy classes, run by Guildford College held in Highlands, Woking. There is a mixture of people who attend these classes, including some hard of hearing students.

In his spare time, Clive is a member of Woking Amateur Operatic Society and will be starring in his fourth production later this year. Congratulations to Clive who is a well deserved winner.

The Mayor also presented the Young People's Civic Awards to the following winners:-

Outstanding Contribution to the Community to Kyle Fleischerwho volunteers two to three times every week with Link Leisure, a local charity for children and adults with a learning disability. Despite his demanding academic studies, Kyle is always keen to help with new activities and he is a reliable and hard working volunteer. An accomplished swimmer, Kyle uses his talents to enhance the safety of Link Leisure's swim club, giving up some of his weekends to help support the children who are weak swimmers. Kyle has an extraordinary mature outlook for such a young person and his energy in caring for people with disabilities in the community is refreshing. Kyle is a great advocate for the acceptance of diversity amongst young people.

Outstanding Achievement to Paul Martin who attends Woking College and has consistently worked at an outstanding level in both his academic studies and in his involvement in college life and the wider community. Paul has shown great dedication in his role as Student President, and has taken on many responsibilities to ensure the Student Council operates smoothly and efficiently. As a result of Paul's impressive organisational skills, the Student Council has raised over £2,000 so far this college year for various charities, including Children in Need and the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Triumph over Adversity to Alex Hovden who was born with cerebral palsy. Alex has enjoyed a fantastic year in which he has sailed in the Challenger WorldChampionships in Portugal, won the Welsh Challenger Championship, won Best Newcomer at the UK Challenger Nationals and is currently ranked 10th nationally. In November last year, Alex was announced as the Royal Yachting Association Thames Valley Regional Young Sailor of the Year 2008. An inspirational young sailor, Alex is currently collecting sponsorship so that he can continue funding his sporting ambitions which include representing Great Britain at the 2012 Paralympics.

Congratulations to all our award winners!!

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Ball - Saturday 7 March 2009

The Civic Ball was held on Saturday 7 March 2009 at H G Wells Conference & Events Centre in Woking.

Over 220 invited guests attended the Ball which included Mayors from Twin Towns Rastatt and Amstleveen and representatives from Le-Plessis Robinson who enjoyed their first visit to Woking. The guests enjoyed a four course meal and danced to the music from the big band The String of Pearls.

The Auction, Grand Draw and Tombola raised a total amount of £6,101.00 during the evening for the Mayors Charity 'The Friends of Woking Community Hospital'.

The Mayor would like to thank everyone who donated prizes and supported this event.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Concert - Sunday 23 November 2008

The Youth of Surrey made Woking very proud as they gave an outstanding performance at this years Civic Concert to a full house at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking, on Sunday 23 November.

Charles Hazelwood compered the evening and gave a brilliant introduction to all the singers and musicians taking part.

The Surrey County Youth Jazz Orchestra conducted by John Whelan performed a selection of lively music including Glenn Millers Pennslyvania 6-5000 and Caravan by Duke Ellington.

This was followed by the Surrey County Youth Choir who performed Musik der Nacht by Johann Strauss and finished with a hymn for St Cecilia by conductor Rufus Frowde. The Choir closed the first half of the concert with the Jazz Orchestra in a rousing performance of It Dont Mean a Thing by Duke Ellington and Irving Mills.

Jack Lambert, a finalist in the Woking Young Musician of the Year opened the second act with a wonderful performance of Sonata in E Major Op.109 by Ludwig van Beethoven.

The finale was worth waiting for as over 70 young people from the Surrey County Youth Orchestra conducted by Peter Currie gave a moving performance of the Fanfare for the Common Man by Aaron Copland and Suite from the Firebird (1919) by Igor Stravinsky.

The Civic Concert provided an opportunity to raise the profile of the Mayors chosen charity The Friends of Woking Community Hospital and raised £1327.13 from the programme sales and donations during the evening.

The Mayor would like to convey his thanks to everyone who supported this event.

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 9 November 2008

Young people were at the forefront as Woking people paid their respects at the Service of Remembrance on Sunday 9 November 2008.

Members of many service organisations were led by the British Airways Band in one of the largest parades seen in the town. The Surrey Army Cadet Force Corps of Drums supported the marching band positioned at the end of the parade.

The Mayor, Mayoress and members of the civic procession were joined by hundreds of people who gathered around the war memorial in the Town Square to remember those who died in the two world wars and in the various battles and conflicts since that have brought about loss of life.

Lauren D Sa from Woking Youth Council took the first reading In Flanders Fields as members of Wokings youth received a personal poppy from the veterans on parade and placed on the memorial in a symbolic act of remembrance.

Reverend Dr Peter Harwood led the open air service and the Mayors Chaplain, Reverend Nicholas Aiken gave an excellent address.

Brigadier Muslim Salamat represented the Shah Jahan Mosque and read the prayers of intercessions along with Alan Willott the Moderator of Churches Together in Woking.

Members from Woking Choral Society, Epworth Choir and The Bisley Ladies Choir formed a combined choir to support the hymns and national anthem.

Bugler Taylor from the Band of Rifles and Bugles played the last post and the Town fell silent for 2 minutes.

At the end of the service as the parade marched out of the Town Square along Church Street East the Mayor took the salute and inspected the many standards attending.

Civic Service - Sunday 22 June 2008

The Civic Service was held at the Church of the Good Shepherd, Pyrford, for the Mayor and Mayoress of Woking, Councillor Peter Ankers and Mrs Gill Ankers. The community service takes place every year for each new elected Mayor.

Rector of the Parish of Wisley with Pyrford, Rev Nicholas Aiken, who is also the Mayors Chaplain and Rural Dean of Woking lead the ecumenical service. Mufti Arnod of the Shah Jahan Mosque and Rev Julie Underwood the Moderator of Churches Together in Pyrford, Byfleet & West Byfleet participated in the Prayers for the Community.

The Civic Procession of 100 strong was led by Superintendent Chris Moon from Surrey Police along with Divisional Officer Simon Moore, from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. The VIP guests included the High Sheriff of Surrey, Mrs Sally Varah, The Freeman of the Borough, Mr David Robinson MBE, TD, JP, DL, Woking's Member of Parliament, Mr Humfrey Malins CBE, Chairman of Surrey County Council, Visiting Mayors from Surrey, Past Chairman and Past Mayors of Woking, Members of the Council, County Councillors and Surrey Magistrates.

Over 300 guests attended the service, which included personal guests of the Mayor, representatives from the uniform, ex-service and youth organisations and a selection of voluntary and general organisations.

Membersof Pyrford C of E Primary School Choir gave an excellent performance under the direction of Headteacher Irene Smith.

Anita Reynell performed a solo during the Anthem Come Holy Ghost along with church choir from Wisley with Pyrford Parish.

The music for the service was provided by Berendina Norton who performed with the dignity deserving of such an occasion.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Reception Friday 25 April 2008

The Civic Reception was held on Friday 25 April at H G Wells Conference and Events Centre to mark the end of the Mayoral year. Over 300 invited guests joined the Mayor and Mayoress, Cllr Bryan Cross and Helen Cross, including the High Sheriff of Surrey, Freeman of the Borough, Member of Parliament, Visiting Mayors, Past Mayors and Chairman, Ex- Service and Uniform organisations along with general organisations from Woking.

The Mayor delivered his end of year speech followed by the presentation of the 2008 Eminent Citizen Award to Phil Ledger for his outstanding contribution to the community. Phil played a big part in community life in Woking and is well known for his association with Woking Football Club. His father was secretary of the club from 1921 to 1948, and Phil started playing amateur football for the club in the 1952/53 season. After four years, he left the club and returned in1967 to be responsible for running the reserve team. Phil has held many positions with the club including Fixtures Secretary, Director and Chairman and this year was made a Life Vice-President.

Phil was appointed as a Magistrate in 1977 and served on the bench until 2001 and for the last six years, has been sitting on a help desk in the Court in an advisory capacity. For the past 10 years Phil has been a Governor of Westfield Primary School and all these posts have been undertaken in a voluntary capacity. A well deserved winner.

The Mayor also presented the Young Peoples Civic Awards to the following winners:-

Outstanding Contribution to the Community toRichard Chapman, Laura Anne Dymore Brown, Craig Ellis, Ben Fenwick, Danielle Grant, James Shannon, William Stevenson Lauren Thomas, and Barney Webster became the first British teenagers to cross the Sinai Desert in Egypt, raising an incredible £100,00.00 for the child bereavement services at the Woking and Sam Beare Hospices. Many of the young people had lost a parent or sibling in recent years so the cause was close to their hearts. The three week expedition lead by Mark Gillett included a week long environmental project renovating a Bedu youth centre in Dahab, following the 150 kilometres desert trek in searing heat. Their outstanding efforts and determination have allowed Woking Hospice to fund a full time counsellor for three years for the bereaved children of Woking.

Outstanding Achievement toVerity Ridgeon who attends Woking High School and is an accomplished fencer. Verity started fencing five years ago, beginning at Woking Fencing Club with a foil. Verity than moved to Guildford Fencing Club, with a sabre, and started competitions. Now in her fourth competitive year, Verity trains three nights a week at three separate clubs, and has competed at fencing events across the country as well as in Europe. Verity has an impressive list of Womens sabre achievements, including the rank number one member of the Great Britain under-15s Womens sabre squad for international competitions, winner of the under-14s Surrey Sabre Youth Championship, winner of a sponsored national league for under-15s, and runner up in both the 2007 British Youth Champion and the 2007 English Youth Champion. Verity has also achieved a Great Britain ranking of 1st for the year of her birth.

Triumph over Adversity to Simona Parish, who attends The Park School suffers from Turner Syndrome and was adopted at the age of seven after spending her early life in an orphanage in Romania. Simona managed to master a new language once in England, and within three months she was refusing to speak Romanian and conversing in accent-free English. Last year, Simona was diagnosed with scoliosis, and she underwent a groundbreaking operation at Great Ormond Street Hospital to correct a curvature of the spine. Simona has shown extreme bravery and determination and she is now back at school full time. Simona is a very courageous young lady with a unique personality, and Simonas positive attitude is an example to us all.

Finally the Mayor presented The Eric Theobald Award, a Police Community Award to Mrs Eileen Martin from Knaphill.

Congratulations to all our award winners!!

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Ball - Saturday 1 March 2008

The Civic Ball was held on Saturday 1 March 2008 at H G Wells Conference and Events Centre in Woking.

Over 250 invited guests enjoyed a four course meal and dancing to music from a lively band called Acoutstic Resonance.

An auction, grand draw and tombola raised a total amount of £5,634.00 during the evening for the Mayor's charity 'The Community Action Fund'.

The Mayor would like to thank everyone who donated prizes and supported this event.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 11 November 2007

Young people were at the forefront as Woking people paid their respects at the Service of Remembrance on Sunday 11^th November 2007.

Members of many service organisations were led by the British Airways Band in one of the largest parades seen in the town.

Zaynab Ansari from Woking Youth Council took the first reading `In Flanders Fields' as members of Woking's youth received a personal poppy from the veterans on parade and placed on the memorial in a symbolic act of remembrance.

Rev Dr Peter Harwood led the service and the Mayor's Chaplain Malcolm Kayes gave an excellent address. Mufti Amod representing the Shah Jahan Mosque read the prayers of intercessions with great dignity deserving of the occasion.

At the end of the service as the parade marched out of the Town Square along Church Street East the Mayor took the salute and inspected the many standards attending.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Concert - Sunday 30 September 2007

The Manfreds, including Paul Jones and his unique harmonica sound, gave a brilliant performance at this year's Civic Concert on Sunday 30^th September at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking.

They performed some of their 15 top ten hits including Do Wah Diddy, Pretty Flamingo, Ha Ha Said The Clown, along with a mix of jazz and rhythm and blues.

The evening was enjoyed by all and it was good to see so many people in the auditorium singing and dancing to the 60s and 70s tunes.

The Civic Concert provided an opportunity to raise the profile of the Mayor's chosen charity `The Mayor's Community Action Fund' which is administered by Woking Citizens Advice Bureau.

There are many ways in which support is channelled through statutory agencies and voluntary bodies. The fund was set up to compliment these existing services by offering assistance where there are gaps in that provision, to help people who are in need of temporary emergency support and to local groups responding to unmet local needs.

The amount raised during the evening from the programme sales and donations was £984.14.

The Mayor would like to convey his thanks to everyone who supported this event.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Service - Sunday 8 July 2007

The annual Civic Service was held at the Coign Church in Woking, for the Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor Bryan Cross and Mrs Helen Cross.

The ecumenical service takes place every year for each new elected Mayor.

Malcolm Kayes the Mayor'´s Chaplain led the service along with the Moderator of Churches Together and a representative of the Shah Jahan Mosque.

The Civic Procession of 100 strong was led by the Chief Superintendent of Surrey Police along with the Divisional Officer of Surrey Fire and Rescue Service. The VIP guests included the High Sheriff of Surrey, The Freeman of the Borough, Woking´s MP, Chairman of Surrey County Council, Visiting Mayor´s from Surrey, Past Chairman and Past Mayors of Woking, Members of the Council, County Cllrs and Surrey Magistrates.

The service hosted 300 members in the congregation, which included personal guests of the Mayor, representatives from the uniform, ex-service and youth organisations with a large selection of voluntary and general organisations.

For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Civic Reception - Friday 27 April 2007

The Civic Reception was held on Friday 27 April at HG Wells Conference and Events Centre to mark the end of the Mayoral year. Over 300 invited guests joined the Mayor and Mayoress which included the Freeman of the Borough, Visiting Mayors, MP, Past Chairman /Mayors, Ex- Service and Uniform organisations along with general organisations from Woking. The Mayor delivered his final speech followed by the presentation of the 2007 Eminent Citizen Award to Tess Hulland for her contribution to the community.

The Mayor also presented four Civic Awards to the following winners:-

Outstanding Contribution to the Community, to Louise Cobban from Winston Churchill School.
Outstanding Achievement, to Eleanor Foy fromAddlestone.
Triumph over Adversity, to Callum Russell from Woking High School and Charlie Willis from Winston Churchill School.

Congratulations to all our award winners!! For further information, please contact Pauline Jackson on 01483 743025.

Recent Civic Events

Civic Reception - Thursday 28 April 2011

Civic Ball - Saturday 5 March 2011

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 14 November 2010

Civic Service - Sunday 27 June 2010

Civic Reception - Friday 23 April 2010

Civic Ball - Saturday 6 March 2010

Civic Concert - Woking Sings - Sunday 7 February 2010

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 8 November 2009

Civic Service - Sunday 28 June 2009

Civic Reception - Friday 24 April 2009

Civic Ball - Saturday 7 March 2009

Civic Concert - Sunday 23 November 2008

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 9 November 2008

Civic Service - Sunday 22 June 2008

Civic Reception Friday 25 April 2008

Civic Ball - Saturday 1 March 2008

Service of Remembrance - Sunday 11 November 2007

Civic Concert - Sunday 30 September 2007

Civic Service - Sunday 8 July 2007

Civic Reception - Friday 27 April 2007

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