Minutes:
Death of George Ward – The Mayor reported on the death of George Ward, also known by the stage name Cherry Valentine, who had passed away on Sunday, 18 September 2022.
The Mayor stated that Mr. Ward had been born in Darlington, and had appeared in the second series of ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’, before going on to star in the BBC documentary ‘Cherry Valentine – Gypsy Queen and Proud’ in January 2022.
As a mark of respect, Members stood and observed a short silence in memory of George Ward.
Northumbria in Bloom – The Mayor announced that Darlington has been awarded two ‘Golds’ in the annual Northumbria in Bloom competition, along with the best improved entry overall.
The Mayor informed Members that, in total, staff, Friends of South Park, Street Champions, Darlington Carers volunteers, residents and businesses had worked together to bring home two Golds, two Silver Gilts, two Best in Categories, and the Most Improved Overall Entry in the competition.
The Mayor congratulated all those involved.