September Mayor's Update: Celebrating Calne’s Community and History

Celebrating Over Two Decades of Service: Honouring Our Mace Bearer

At our Full Council meeting on Monday 28 September, I had the privilege of recognizing an incredible milestone for our town. We presented our Mace Bearer, Kevin O’Daly, with a commemorative shield and long-service plaque to mark over 20 years of dedicated service to Calne.

The Office of Mace Bearer is steeped in history. In the Middle Ages, mace bearers served as bodyguards carrying heavy war maces for protection. Over time, as towns gained greater independence, these weapons transformed into ceremonial symbols of law, order, and civic authority. Today, when the Mace Bearer leads our civic processions ahead of the Mayor, they carry centuries of local tradition and pride.

Kevin has carried out this duty with immense distinction, professionalism, and commitment. On behalf of everyone in Calne, thank you, Kevin, for your continued dedication to our community!

Restoring a Piece of Civic History: A New Handmade Gavel

During the same meeting, I was also proud to formally present a new handmade gavel to Calne Town Council, completing a lost piece of our civic heritage.

The story dates back to 3 May 1960, when personnel from RAF Compton Bassett gifted a wooden presentation box, gavel, and soundboard to the Mayor and town as a token of friendship. The soundboard features the fitting motto, "A time to keep silence and a time to speak."

When the original gavel went missing years ago, the set was left incomplete. To restore it, Mike Crawshaw of the Calne Men's Shed turned a replacement designed to fit the original box's exact dimensions. Crafted from dark English walnut and solid ebony, it features an antique sterling silver napkin ring as a central band, engraved to record the presentation and credit Mike's skill. Thanks to Mike and the Calne Men's Shed, this symbol of local craftsmanship is back in active use for council debate.

Bringing People Together at the Calne Connection Festival

On Saturday 19 September, I was delighted to open the Calne Connection Festival. It was fantastic to see so many people gather to celebrate the volunteers, local groups, and organizations that make Calne such a warm and friendly place to live.

This year’s festival featured a brilliant intergenerational focus, giving young children, families, and older residents the chance to spend time side by side, share skills, and try new activities together. We were also joined by performer Louise Jordan, who brought Second World War history to life with her immersive show Would You, Could You Be a Spy?.

Events like this only happen thanks to the hard work of our amazing local volunteers. My sincere thanks to everyone who put so much time and energy into organizing the day, as well as to Calne Town Council and Wiltshire Council for their support.

Keeping Town Business Moving

Behind the scenes, essential council work has continued at a steady pace:

• Early in the month, we held an Extraordinary Full Council meeting to review a grant application for the Calne Food Bank, ensuring this vital service gets the support it needs.

• I attended regular weekly Mayor catchups and chaired the Personnel Sub-Committee.

Thank you to everyone who makes Calne such a supportive and strong community. I look forward to keeping you updated on everything coming up in October!