Old Woodstock Mock Mayor Tradition Continues to Enrich Woodstock Community

The Old Woodstock Mock Mayor tradition isn't just about being silly, dancing and throwing people in the river. While that's certainly important, the organization continues its serious work of making an impact across the community.

At a presentation ceremony at The Star on November 3rd, the committee presented £1,000 to local charities following their successful summer elections. The Woodstock Lunch Club received £500 to fund their Christmas lunch and gifts for diners, while Tuesday Tots at the Woodstock Methodist Church was awarded £500 to improve their play area's accessibility.

On December 2nd, the Mock Mayor committee presented £2,000 to The Marlborough School to establish an enrichment fund. Nick Tonks presented the cheque to Andrew Hanlon, Head Teacher, during a Year 12 and 13 assembly. The young people were treated to an early-morning local history lesson from a man wearing a Top Hat, blanket, and curtain rings - a tough gig by any measure!

The community impact of these donations is already evident. Alex Wilkinson, Enrichment Lead at the school, has worked with the Mock Mayor team to establish the program. This initiative ensures students from all financial backgrounds can participate in educational experiences, including the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and school trips. The fund has already supported 23 students, demonstrating its immediate impact on the community.

Sue John, Treasurer of the Woodstock Lunch Club, expressed her gratitude: "We look forward to giving our diners a special Christmas lunch with entertainment and a small Christmas gift for each person. They are always so appreciative of anything we do for them, and hopefully we can keep the Lunch Club going for many more years."

Ann Leck from Tuesday Tots highlighted their group's significant role in supporting parents. During the pandemic, they supported 100 families through an otherwise isolated period. The group is now celebrating a remarkable milestone - their first "grandchild," as they've been operating long enough for former attendees to have their own children.

Nick Tonks, the current Old Woodstock Mock Mayor, commented, "These donations will make a real difference to people across our community: toddlers, young people, parents and retirees. None of this would be possible without our amazing community, generous sponsors, local businesses, and our dedicated volunteers who make the Mock Mayor elections such a success. It's wonderful to see a centuries-old tradition continuing to benefit Woodstock residents today."

Local charities seeking support, or anyone interested in joining the Mock Mayor committee or volunteering for the Lunch Club, can get in touch via email at owmm1786@outlook.com.