Town Mayor | Knutsford Town Council

10Oct2023

Join the Mayor of Knutsford this Christmas at Tatton Park

Fall down the rabbit hole and find yourself in the magical world of Lewis Carrol’s Alice in Wonderland and be entertained by charming characters along the way all whilst raising money for the Mayor of Knutsford’s chosen charities.

Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan is inviting the town to step into the winter wonderland at Tatton Park with him this November as he raises more funds for his Knutsford GROW and a Knutsford Men’s Shed.

The event, which takes place on Saturday 25^th November at 1pm, is a special edition of Tatton Park’s Christmas Mansion. Tickets are £24.95 per person which includes admission, parking and soup, mince pies and hot drinks.

Opening sales for the event, the Town Mayor, Peter Coan, said “I do hope you will be able to join me for this fundraising event. We will celebrate the festive season together, enjoy exploring the winter wonderland and then warm up with delicious soup and mince pies. There will be, great company, and a chance to win prizes in the fundraising raffle”.

To book your space simply contact Civic Events Officer Gemma Jackson before November 10th on 01565 653 929 or at Gemma.Jackson@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

26Jul2023

Civic Sunday Parade

Residents of Knutsford are being encouraged to come out to see their Town Mayor, Cllr Peter Coan, at his Civic Sunday parade on Sunday 30th July. The Mayor of Knutsford will be processing through the streets for the first time since he became Mayor in May.

The parade assembles at 1.30pm at King Street Car Park and sets off at 1.45pm processing down King Street, up Minshull Street, along Princess Street, taking a left down Church Walk and across the Moor before heading up to St Cross Church where the Civic Service will take place led by Reverend Paul Deakin

The parade will be led by Warrington Brass band and include dignitaries and Town Mayors along with Chairs from Town and Parish Councils across Cheshire.

Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan said: “My Civic Sunday is open to anyone who wants to attend. All are welcome to join me as I parade through the town with my fellow councillors and Cheshire dignitaries and the church service is open to everyone! Please feel free to come along. Let’s hope the sun keeps shining for us all!’

During his term of office, Cllr Coan is raising funds for Knutsford GROW and for UK Men’s Sheds Association.

For more information about the above events contact the Civic Events Officer on 01565 653929 or email laura.phillipson@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

5Jul2023

A feast for the senses as Flowers in Wallwood returns

Wallwood, the woodland area at the top of King Street in Knutsford, will soon be decked with decorated flowers for the third Flowers in Wallwood display.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, the Town Ranger, Bob Garner crafts the flower bases out of sustainable materials. The flowers are then sent to local primary schools, retirement, and care homes to be decorated. The brief for this year’s creations is ‘The Senses’ to reflect the RHS theme for the flower show at neighbouring Tatton Park.

The designs will be unveiled at Wallwood on 18^th July with a visit from the Mayor of Knutsford, Peter Coan. Afterwards the Town Ranger will ‘plant’ the flowers in Wallwood where they will remain on display throughout the summer.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager said “We are excited to see how each participant has decorated their flower. In previous years, this initiative has created a wonderful decoration in Wallwood. We anticipate this year will be no different and the display will be well worth a visit.”

Sandra added “We are grateful to the sponsors of this display without whose support this project wouldn’t have been possible”

The installation has been sponsored by local independent businesses, Detaljer and The Tea Room.

Caterine Hooper from Detaljer said “We are delighted to be working together with The Tea Room to support this lovely community event. We can’t wait to see the results and look forward to visiting the display in Wallwood”

Harriet Henry from The Tea Room said “We have always loved to visit Flowers in Wallwood and are proud to sponsor this beautiful community exhibition”

9May2023

Coronation Tree Planted

To mark the coronation of HM King Charles III, the Town Mayor planted a commemorative oak tree on the Heath in advance of the coronation barn dance. This continued a tradition dating back to the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902.

Town Council volunteer researchers Jenny and Mary recently uncovered old documents, Knutsford Guardian reports, and a map giving details of four oak trees which had been planted to commemorate the coronation of our last four monarchs, they began looking back at previous celebrations and sought the help of Friends of The Heath in identifying the exact whereabouts of the trees. Jenny and Mary also spoke to the Town Council about the possibility of continuing the tradition of planting an oak tree for King Charles III on coronation day, 6th May.

The Town Council was keen not to break the tradition and in the week leading up to the coronation set about making swift preparations. Representatives from Knutsford Heritage Centre and Friends of The Heath, together with Mr Henry Brooks of Tatton Estates, and members of the public, watched as Town Mayor Cllr Mike Houghton performed the ceremony and dedicated the tree to the new King.

In 1902 an oak was planted by the drinking fountain in honour of Edward VII, the commemorative plaque for this tree was replaced by the council in 2022.

The 1911 tree was planted in the centre of the heath for the coronation of King George V, unfortunately it is there no longer and was likely removed c1944 when General Patton’s US troops camped on the heath.

Iron railings near the bowling club boundary wall circle a dead stump which was the tree planted in 1937 for King George VI. And Friends of the Heath have recently found a healthy oak tree in iron railings a short way across from Warren Avenue which was the tree planted in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth II.

The 2023 tree for HM King Charles III is adjacent to Tabley Road and a commemorative plaque will be installed shortly.

20Mar2023

Town Celebrates its 2023 Community Heroes

The Knutsford community celebrated its heroes last week at the 10^th Annual Knutsford Town Awards.

The award ceremony took place at Knutsford Little Theatre, with Town Mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, Managing Director of the Forum of Private Business, announcing the winners of the 2023 awards.

First up was the Youth Award, with a joint award being made to twin sisters Liv and Jess Johnson, who received the award for their voluntary work with 7^th Knutsford Brownies as part of their bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.

The Community Award shield was presented to the Knutsford and District Talking Newspaper who for over 45 years have been supporting the visually impaired community by providing a free audio recording of the Knutsford Guardian to ensure they are kept informed of community news. The Talking Newspaper has only ever missed four editions (due to Covid) over the past four decades!

Three recipients were presented with a Civic Award; this award goes to individuals or groups of individuals who work to make Knutsford a better place.

The first award went to Rob Lyons for over a decade of leadership at 1st Knutsford Scouts and volunteering his skills as a joiner and plumber to undertake much of the fit out of the new 1st Knutsford Scout Hut.

The second Civic Award was for Judy Clifford who was described in a nomination as being a “mother figure and friend to many” at the Welcome. Judy, who has also taught many people to knit and supported neighbours through challenging times, was unable to attend the award ceremony.

The final Civic Award of 2023 was presented to Gemma Jackson, founder and leader of the Wrap Up Knutsford group. Gemma’s many nominations praised her dedication in supporting local families and ensuring good coats are recycled for those who need them

The 2023 Business Award was presented to Tatton Perk. Proprietor Mark Lee-Kilgariff has ensured Tatton Perk is a central part of the local community, using their Moor Park site as a warmth bank over winter, introducing free bike checks for visitors and supporting a number of community organisations with prizes.

Before the Business Award was presented a Mayor’s Special Award was announced for Dan Belcher of Guy’s Barbers. Dan received the award in recognition of delivering outstanding customer service whilst battling challenging personal circumstances.

Tatton Perk was called back onto stage for the Knutsford School’s for Sustainability Award, and was presented this award by Alison Hooper, head of Egerton School, on behalf of the local schools. This award recognises sustainable business practices.

The final award was the Extra Mile Award which goes to someone who, in their paid employment, has gone above and beyond for the benefit of the local community with the 2023 award going to Jack Street of Johnsons the Cleaners. Jack was singled out for his kind and patient support to customers which has enabled the older members of the community who may struggle with some of the technology they are asked to use to access the various services on offer.

Speaking at the awards, Town Mayor Cllr Mike Houghton said “I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to submit a nomination this year. These awards would not happen without you. I know previous Mayor’s have said this too but it really is true – those who were shortlisted should be so incredibly proud.”

7Nov2022

Knutsford Town Mayor releasing Charity Ball Tickets

There is less than one month to go until Town Mayor Cllr Mike Houghton holds a Charity Ball to raise funds for Knutsford Scouts and the UK Men’s Sheds Association, his chosen charities for the year.

The Winter Wonderland Ball, which this year is being held at Cottons Hotel, will take place on Friday 25^th November. The ball is the Mayor’s biggest fundraising event of the year and promises to be a glamorous and fun filled evening with entertainment from DJ Pete Deane and a close up magician.

Cllr Houghton said “Please accept this as my invitation to each of you to all to come along and join me for an evening of good food and great entertainment. I hope to raise enough money on the night to help to secure the future of two important groups in Knutsford, both of which promote positive mental health within our community.”

Tickets are available for the night at £65 per person for a delicious 3-course meal, arrival drink and entertainment. To book your place you can contact the Civic Events Officer Michelle Bate on 01565 653929 or email michelle.bate@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk. Get your tickets this week or you might miss out!

Raffle tickets are also now on sale for the Mayor’s Prize Draw at £2 each with a range of great prizes up for grabs. The raffle will be drawn at the Ball but anyone can purchase tickets by contacting Michelle or visiting the Council Offices.

Any businesses wishing to make a prize donation for the raffle or auction can contact Michelle at the details above.

8Apr2022

Mayor’s Cabaret Raises £2k for Local Charities

On Saturday 2^nd April, The Mayor of Knutsford welcomed over 50 guests to his Spring Cabaret at The Courthouse. Knutsford. Mayors from across the North West attended to support the Mayor of Knutsford with the penultimate fundraising activity for his chosen charities.

Guests were welcomed with a red carpet entrance where they were greeted by The Mayor and his consort, Mr Simon Hutchence before taking seats in front of the Courthouse’s grand stage from which they were dazzled with performances starting with the incredibly talented students of Fuchsia School of Dance following by a medley popular songs from Knutsford Beats. International Comedian Sully O’Sullivan served as Master of Ceremonies whilst singing duo Igloo Hearts and the acrobatic delights of the show-stopping Circus House completed the bill of entertainment.

The evening was a fantastic success and a combination of sponsorship, ticket sales, prize balloons, an auction, and raffle ticket sales has raised over £2,000 for the Knutsford and District Branch of the Royal British Legion and the Knutsford Branch of The St Vincent De Paul Society; the two charities which have been the focus of Cllr Gardiner’s fundraising efforts.

Prize were found hidden in balloons, each one containing a voucher for a fabulous prize donated by local businesses including gifts from The Botanist, Real Fruit Creamery, Rose and Crown, Shamoli, Pastiche, Eastern Revive, Pizza Express, Crewe Hall, The Lambing Shed and The Courthouse. The sound of balloons popping filled the reception space and started the party atmosphere.

The Raffle proved popular and prizes included donations from Elite Health, Pete The Pilot, Knutsford Directory, Knutsford Music Festival, White Orchid, Cheshire Quality, Rohan, Midas, Roberta Beauty, Sarah Jane King Photography, Tree Tops Holistics and Beauty and the Town Mayor too.

The Live Auction raised over £500 with bidding war between guests to win beautiful prizes donated by Pulse of Perfumery and Andrew Collier Photography.

Tables were decorated with decadent candelabras and were sponsored by Packaging Automation Ltd, Golden Stitches and Elite Health. All are local Knutsford businesses and who each gave incredible support to ensure The Mayor’s Charities have the funds they need in order to support local people.

Cllr Stewart Gardiner said: “What began as inspired thought, after some very hard work became an incredibly enjoyable event with some very impressive performances and delicious food. Everyone who attended told me how much they had enjoyed the evening. I would like to thank everyone who attended or supported me in some way to make the inaugural Cabaret event such a success. “

Cllr Gardiner’s final fundraising event will be a sponsored danceathon taking place in early May.

2Mar2022

Town Mayor to host a cabaret evening

Knutsford Town Mayor, Cllr Stewart Gardiner is looking forward to his Spring Charity Cabaret which takes place on Saturday 2^nd April at The Courthouse, Knutsford. The Mayor hopes that the Cabaret will be the biggest fundraising event of his mayoral year and promises to be a fun filled evening with performances from a variety of local and national entertainers.

The Spring Cabaret will raise funds to support the Mayor’s chosen charities – the Knutsford Royal British Legion and the Knutsford St Vincent De Paul Society.

Cllr Stewart Gardiner said: “Following the success of my autumn ball, I’m hoping to increase the funds that I will be able to share between my chosen charities. The Cabaret will be an opportunity for everyone to experience a variety of entertainment whilst enjoying dinner in the historic courthouse. Please accept this as my invitation to each you all to come along and join what will hopefully be a highlight of this year’s social calendar.

Tickets are available for the night at £50 per person for a delicious 2-course meal, and all the evening’s entertainment. To book your place you can contact the Civic Events Officer Michelle Bate as soon as possible before 7^th March on 01565 653929 or email michelle.bate@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

Any businesses wishing to make a prize donation for the raffle can contact Michelle at the details above.

18Feb2022

Mayor plants tree for Platinum Jubilee

The 70^th anniversary of the accession of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was marked in Knutsford on Sunday 5^th February with the Town Mayor and councillors planting a commemorative tree at the Council Offices.

Town Mayor Cllr Stewart Gardiner was joined by councillors and residents at a small ceremony on the day marking 70 years since HM The Queen took the throne. This marked the first act ahead of the official celebrations in June.

The council chose a Magnolia ‘Elizabeth’ tree to celebrate the occasion. The tree will blossom with clear pale primrose yellow, fragrant cup-shaped flowers between April and May each year – covering the period of HM The Queen’s birthday.

The national celebrations of the jubilee take place over a four-day bank holiday weekend from 2^nd to 5^th June. The Town Council is organising a beacon lighting as part of beacon lighting across the nation on Thursday 2^nd June whilst Knutsford Lions will be hosting a Jubilee Fair on the Heath on Friday 3^rd June.

The 2012 Diamond Jubilee saw a specially commissioned arch installed at the Library Gardens and for the Platinum Jubilee the council is discussing holding a competition for children to design a new piece of public art. The Town Mayor will also be offering to plant a jubilee tree at each school in Knutsford ahead of the half term break.

15Dec2021

Over £300 raised at cinema night

The Mayor of Knutsford’s Charity Screening of Bridget Jones’s Diary was a fantastic success raising over £300 for the Mayor’s chosen charities, The Knutsford Branch of the Royal British Legion and The Knutsford Branch of The St Vincent de Paul Society.

The event, which took place on Wednesday 8th December, was hosted by the Curzon Knutsford and attended by 33 guests who were treated to an exclusive screening with wine and popcorn. The winners of the raffle prizes went home with goodies including an M&S Voucher, Wine, Chocolates and a Monet Bracelet.

Town Mayor, Cllr Stewart Gardiner said “from the raucous laughter of the audience, I clearly picked a winner when choosing to host the screening of Bridget Jones’ Diary. The seasonal ending added to the atmosphere of the experience. Thank you to all that supported the evening. We are hoping to reprise the experience in the spring”.

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