As we come to the end of another incredible year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that has happened in Bishop Auckland throughout 2025. It has been a year full of progress, community spirit, and exciting developments that make me proud to serve as your Mayor.
I continue to be amazed by the kindness and generosity of those living and working in our town. I have attended a range of events, and activities, including celebrations for 100th birthdays, Halloween parties, all arranged by the wonderful people of this town.
The Towns event programme continues to grow and be well supported, from vibrant street food markets to the ever-popular Food Festival, Bishop Auckland has shown that it is a town full of life and energy. This year, we once again celebrated our Heritage Festival, in the autumn alongside a fantastic car show, attracting visitors from near and far and showcasing the best of what our town has to offer.
A new event rode into town in the summer, which was a sight to behold, with over a hundred bikes, The Goldwing Owners Club of Great Britain gathered congregated in Bishop Auckland in August, I was thrilled we were able give them a warm welcome, and they gave thanks by holding a by holding a light parade and rode around the town for all to see.
The Remembrance Parade was again well attended and was a moving tribute to those who sacrificed for our freedom.
As we head into the festive season, the past few weeks have been truly magical. Christmas Town Weekend was a phenomenal success and made even more special with the addition of the Christmas Town Parade funded by the Town Council. We had over 100 in the parade, from performers at Jack Drum Arts, and Daisy Arts, to community members and families who had come to our lantern making workshops. This teamed with Aglow, by the Auckland Project really does start to make Bishop Auckland the Christmas Capital of the Northeast, as both events have brought thousands together to share in the joy of the season. It was a wonderful reminder of the power of community. Events like these are important as they help to support our local businesses and traders.
This Christmas, the Town Council are pleased to report that we have supported a range of community groups and organisations to help them spread some Christmas joy, by giving a festive donation to 27 groups in total. This included a donation to Woodhouse Close Church Community Centre who through the power of amazing volunteers are able to host a Christmas Day lunch for those who will be alone this Christmas, other groups have included donations to Bishop Auckland Rugby Club for their junior section, Bishop Auckland Theatre Society who are bring their fabulous panto to town early in the new year!
Fundraising for my chosen charity, Bishop Auckland Butterwick Hospice continues to go well. I hosted a mayoral afternoon tea at the McIntyre Centre and have a Tapas evening coming up in the New Year at El Costello. Thank you to everyone who has supported these causes.
Looking ahead, we have more special events planned for 2026, so please keep an eye out for details. We look forward to the development of the new hotel in the Market Place, the opening of the cinema at the retail park and how Bishop Auckland continues its journey to become a visitor destination town. Combined with the incredible people who make up this community, the future is bright.
On behalf of Bishop Auckland Town Council, my fellow Councillors, and our dedicated Town Council Officers, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for making Bishop Auckland such a special place.
