Newbury Mayor's tea a hit with older townspeople

Newbury mayor Billy Drummond recently hosted a tea party for older residents in lieu of the traditional Mayor’s Drive - cancelled due to coronavirus concerns.

Around 50 over-75s were invited to the event, to be served coffee and cake and entertained with bingo and a festive-themed quiz.

Taking care of the guests were West Berkshire councillor Jeff Beck (Con, Newbury Clay Hill), former Newbury mayor Elizabeth O’Keeffe and councillor Phil Barnett (Lib Dem, Newbury Greenham), among other volunteers and dignitaries.

Town crier Brian Sylvester was also on hand to ensure the event went smoothly.

Among the older guests was 105 year-old Ruth Saunders, who made headlines with her Captain Tom Moore-inspired walking feats during the pandemic and received her MBE from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle

Mr Drummond said: “This was one of the best engagements my wife and I have done so far as Mayor and Mayoress of Newbury, a town that we are proud to call home.”