16/08/2026
Some of you may have been wondering why Iβve been a little quiet on social media recently.π€
Well, after having very, very few days off since being inaugurated as Lord Mayor of Plymouth, I decided I needed to take a few days break. β€οΈ
It has been absolutely amazing representing our wonderful city. The number of invitations, events and warm welcomes Iβve received from so many people across Plymouth has been truly humbling, and Iβm incredibly grateful and I have tried to do as many as I can.
But, despite being in a non-political role, recent events have reminded me that there is still a lot of political hostility out there. Iβve unfortunately been subjected to a number of threats and unpleasant comments on social media.
Iβm not going to dwell on the negativity, though. Life is far too short, however the busy schedule had left me tired and exhausted and sometimes you simply need to step away, recharge and do something that makes you happy.
So, I treated myself to exactly thatβ¦ Bloodstock Festival π€π₯
A bad haircut, good friends, a refreshment or two, some absolutely amazing bands, plenty of headbanging and a fantastic few days enjoying some of the music I love. I got to see incredible performances from my fav bands Lamb of God (I had the pleasure of being in the front row), Life of Agony, Saxon and one of my absolute favourites, Black Label Society.
And then something happened that I never thought Iβd be doing at 42β¦
I went crowd surfing! ππ€
Maybe not your typical Lord Mayor activity, but being one of the younger Lord Mayor's in the UK and in Plymouths history, I like to think I do things a little differently!
I still have the energy to chase goals, try new things and, most importantly, enjoy life. And being carried through the crowd towards one of my guitar heroes, Zakk Wylde, was certainly an experience I wonβt ever forget! πΈπ€
The break was genuinely needed, but Iβm pleased to say normal Lord Mayor duties have now resumed. This week has already been full of events, meetings, emails and, most importantly, getting back out there representing Plymouth.
Iβm feeling refreshed, energised and ready to keep doing what I love β serving our amazing city and its people.
Sometimes you just need to switch off, re-charge, turn the music up and remember who you are. β€οΈ
And as much as I loved Bloodstockβ¦ itβs good to be back home in Plymouth. πβ