Firstly, there was the wonderful Big Green Seaside Station Day event at Whitley Bay Metro Station on Saturday, where I represented the Friends of the Rising Sun Countryside Centre on the Rising Sun Organic Farm stall.

From my arrival (before 10am), the place was buzzing with activity and entertainment. I am well aware of the amount of hard work and preparation behind an event such as this and the staff concerned are to be commended for their planning and organisational skills as well as the inspired choice of entertainment/stalls, etc – very much family-oriented and something for all the family.

Secondly, on Monday, September 1, I was lucky enough to be at the Town Hall for the launch of the Wallsend 100 Celebrations.

(This event – based at the Town Hall – comprises an ongoing exhibition as well as a month-long programme of events celebrating the Town Hall's centenary).

Yet again, this event was well-organised from start to finish, from the warm greeting, the special guests, the inspired choice of John Grundy as guest speaker as well as the wonderful Backworth Male Voice Choir who serenaded us with a wonderful array of songs, the most memorable being the opening one – a rousing South African song of welcome.

A specially-made "100" cake (complete with candles) was brought in and ceremoniously cut, and the evening ended with a splendid buffet and choice of refreshments and the opportunity to visit the exhibition.

Thirdly, as a regular user of Envirolink, this service is to be commended. From the initial call to the centre with a cheery and welcoming response, to the execution of the requested service, it is a perfect example of what North Tyneside Council can achieve at its efficient best.

I rang requesting the trimming back of nearby bushes and two days later the usual team arrived to perform their duty in their usual kind, courteous and professional manner. I must also mention the refuse collectors who cover my street, Lancaster Drive at Hadrian Park.

They are unfailingly polite, friendly and efficient and reliable, and nothing ever seems to be too much trouble for them.

Congratulations and thanks to all concerned.

ANNE BAXTER
Lancaster Drive
Hadrian Park
Wallsend.

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