On Sunday afternoon we had the great privilege of hosting the first ever Acts of Bravery Service at the iconic St Mary’s Church in our beloved town of Richmond. As Mayor and Mayoress, it was an honour to welcome members of our community alongside distinguished civic guests including the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, Sir Andrew Lawson-Tancred, The Chair of North Yorkshire Council, George Jabbour, Lt Shaun Cubitt RN and Miss Rachel Barber from HMS Richmond, fellow Mayors from across the county, Mark, Chair of the Duck Club, Emma, President of the Richmond Meet, together with representatives from our district nursing and palliative care teams, Richmond Fire Brigade, and many others who serve our community every day. The service, Acts of Bravery, Moments of Memory, gave us the opportunity to pause as a community and reflect. We came together to recognise the courage, compassion and dedication of those who serve others, often in the most challenging circumstances. Our heartfelt thanks were extended to our emergency services, healthcare professionals, carers, volunteers and support workers whose quiet commitment forms the backbone of our community. At the same time, we remembered those who are no longer with us, holding their families and loved ones close in our thoughts. While grief never truly leaves us, the strength of community helps us carry it. During the service we were also proud to introduce a very special new honour. The Unsung Hero Award, recognising individuals whose kindness, dedication and selfless service often go unseen, yet whose impact on our community is immeasurable. It was my absolute privilege to present the inaugural Unsung Hero Award to Edwina Anderson, nominated by Jordan Smith. For more than two decades, Edwina has devoted herself to supporting young people and families across Richmondshire. Through youth clubs, activities, mentoring and countless acts of kindness behind the scenes, she has created opportunities, built confidence and changed lives for so many. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to those who helped make the service so moving and memorable. To Nichola for her incredible poem which captured the spirit of the service so beautifully. To Toni Woof, Richmond Firefighter, and T/Insp Ciaran Conlon for their thoughtful readings,Clinical Matron for Hambleton & Richmondshire