Sawbridgeworth town mayor’s civic dinner an evening of community spirit and charitable generosity

Guests at Sawbridgeworth mayor’s civic dinner enjoyed an evening filled with community spirit, vibrant music, and charitable generosity.

The event, at Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall, The Forebury, on Saturday (Apr 5) began with a three-course meal catered by Magpie Catering, following which speeches were delivered by Mayor Cllr Reece Smith and Deputy Mayor Cllr Salvatore Pagdades.

The mayor’s speech centred on celebrating the remarkable contributions of volunteers across the town. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sawbridgeworth Town Council team for organising not only this event but the various community events held throughout the year. Former town and district councillor Angela Alder – was was granted freedom of the town last year – followed the mayor's speech with a loyal toast.

Musical entertainment was provided by the talented Leventhorpe School Band, whose performance was said to captivate the audience and added to the evening's festive atmosphere.

Among the distinguished guests were mayors of Bishops Stortford (Cllr Richard Townsend), Hertford (Cllr Rachel Carter), Buntingford (Cllr Duncan Wallace), and chair of Harlow (Cllr Andrew Johnson), East Herts Council Vice chair (Cllr Martin Adams), and Herts County Council chair (Cllr Terry Douris).

Master of ceremonies and town clerk Chris Hunt said the event was “a resounding success” and raised more than £700 through a raffle, with additional funds from the night still to be tallied.

Proceeds will be donated to Cllr Smith's chosen charities: the Scouts and Sawbridgeworth Young People's Recreational Centre, further supporting local youth and community initiatives.

Mr Hunt added: “Sawbridgeworth can be proud of yet another memorable civic ceremony that not only celebrated our community but also reaffirmed our commitment to giving back.”