“It was a privilege and an honour” - Nick Webb reflects on year as mayor of Lowestoft

Steven and Victoria Schofield of Lord Kitcheners (left) and Jenna Veneziani of Alzheimer�s Society (right) with the outgoing mayor Nick Webb and outgoing deputy mayor Mary Rudd as the cheques are presented to the charities. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

Nick Webb, who now serves on Lowestoft Town Council, handed over his robes and chain after a year in post last month.

He said: 'It was an absolute privilege and an honour to be appointed as a mayor.

Outgoing mayor of Lowestoft Nick Webb starts the Brainwave charity cycle ride. Picture: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

'Especially being mayor of Lowestoft which made me the most easterly mayor in the country.'

When discussing the highlights of his post, Mr Webb said: 'Getting to meet the vast array of people and organisations that you don't ordinarily know about was wonderful.

The wishing well restoration is completed. Pictures: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

'There are so many charities and people in our town who do so much for the benefit of those in Lowestoft.'

At the annual Mayor's Ball on March 18, Mr Webb raised over £6,000. This was spilt between Lowestoft Alzheimer's Society and the Lord Kitchener Memorial Holiday Centre.

The wishing well restoration is completed. Pictures: Mick Howes (Image: Archant)

'It was a phenomenal night and incredible to raise so much money', said Mr Webb.

The Lowestoft Alzheimer's Society helps increase awareness of dementia, something Mr Webb says is a priority for the East of England Co-op Funeral Services, where he works. 'They are the largest dementia friendly employer in the region,' he said.

'It's all about thinking about someone's needs and giving that little extra time.'

Mr Webb called the Lord Kitchener Memorial Holiday Centre, which has supported ex-servicemen and women for generations, a 'fantastic organisation'.

One of his final duties as acting mayor was aiding the refurbishment of the wishing well beside the seafront which belongs to the Rotary Club of Lowestoft.

He said: 'I would like to see that whole area be used as a focal point for the community.

'People can use the area as a reflective space with the well maintained gardens and benches.'

Speaking of his successor Mr Webb said: 'I wish councillor Ian Graham all the best of luck for his year as mayor.

'It is important the mayoral office is kept high profile and that the people of the town know there is someone there to perform civic duties and stand up for them.'

He added: 'Our biggest strength is our people. We come together in the good times and we come together in times of tragedy.'

The charities who benefited from Mr Webb's year of fundraising praised his efforts.

Victoria Schofield, of the Kitchner's Management Committee, said: 'On Behalf of all at Kitchener's we would like to sincerely thank Nick, his wife Sarah and all those who contributed to the superb Charity Ball.

'Not only did it raise money for charities it was a feel good event showcasing the wonderful, generous people of Lowestoft.'

Barry Scaplehorn MBE, speaking on behalf of the Rotary Club of Lowestoft, said: 'I would like to thank our mayor councillor Nick Webb for his contribution in having the wishing well refurbished beside the Thatched Cottage on the seafront.

'This is a collection point for Rotary charities, if you would like to drop you coins into the slots provided, it will then go towards helping worthwhile causes.'