Mayor of Abingdon on Thames

17/06/2026

I recently attended the first (of two) events at Radley College along with Anne Newton, chair of The Abingdon Music Centre.

Some two hundred young people joined together to play Dvorak's New World Symphony.

Various groups had spent the morning together rehearsing a special arrangement. They were clearly enjoying themselves and entertaining an audience of parents and grandparents.

Plenty of musical talent for Abingdon's future.

08/06/2026

Thank you to Bridge House Care Home for a wonderful welcome last week.

20/05/2026

This year my chosen charity is the Abingdon Music Centre.

The Centre was founded 50 years ago, providing classes for babies and pre-school children. Since then, it has expanded greatly to fulfil its charitable objective of “music for everyone”. Music has been found to improve mental health, boost brain development, aid memory and concentration and reduce social isolation. Anyone should have a chance to reap these benefits, regardless of their age or ability.

19/05/2026

As I write my last post for this page I would like to say that it has been one of the greatest honours of my life to serve as Mayor of this wonderful town. When I first took on the role, I knew it would be special, but I could never have fully imagined how meaningful, moving, and inspiring this year would become.

Over the past year, I have had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people across Abingdon: residents, volunteers, community groups, charities, schools, businesses, faith groups, councillors, officers, and organisations. Each of you contributes in your own way to making our town such a special place.

What I have seen again and again is kindness. I have seen people giving their time quietly, without expecting recognition. I have seen communities supporting each other through challenges. I have seen young people full of hope and ideas, and volunteers who are truly the heart and soul of Abingdon.

This year has reminded me that a town is not only its buildings, roads, or beautiful history. A town is its people, and Abingdon is blessed with truly wonderful people.

Last night at the Mayor making ceremony I handed over the robes and chains of office to my fellow Councillor, Andrew Skinner. I wish Andrew every happiness as he takes over as Mayor. I hope he enjoys his year as much as I have. Rawda

13/05/2026

Abingdon XI v Kensington & Chelsea XI

I am absolutely delighted to share that a charity cricket match on Sunday was a great success and even better, both the OX14 colts team and the adult team won their matches! But for me, the day was about much more than the result. This event brought together the communities of Abingdon-on-Thames and the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, alongside Mayor Tom Bennett and his team, to celebrate the historic links between our two communities while supporting our Mayors’ charities. It was a lovely example of how history can continue to inspire friendship, partnership and positive community activity today.

The colts match brought together young people from across the OX14 Learning Partnership, including pupils from Radley College, St Helen & St Katharine, John Mason School, Fitzharrys School and Larkmead School. A massive thank you to John Sparks from Radley College for helping coordinate the team and making this opportunity possible for the young players.

This event was a fantastic example of what can be achieved when communities work together — sport, heritage, partnership, friendship, civic pride and support for charity all in one place.

It was also a valuable opportunity for the young people involved to take part in a civic and charitable event, gain experience, build confidence and see how sport can bring people together for a meaningful cause.

Thank you to everyone who helped organise, support, play, attend and contribute. The day truly reflected the spirit of community and partnership that I have been proud to champion during my mayoral year.

28/04/2026

20/04/2026

On Saturday 11th April, we were honoured to welcome Layla Moran to the Mayor’s Civic Service in Abingdon-on-Thames.

Both the Civic Service and Clubs & Societies celebrate unity, service, and the values that connect us all. It was wonderful to see such strong support from across our town.

Thank you, Layla, for your continued encouragement and for standing with our community it is truly appreciated.

13/04/2026

On Saturday, we came together for a very special Civic Service, where we heard many voices—different perspectives, traditions, and experiences.

And yet, one message came through clearly: we are stronger when we stand together.

We reflected on faith, kindness, and compassion, and on the simple but powerful idea that every person matters. It was a beautiful reminder that community is built not just in moments like these, but in how we support one another every day.

I was truly proud to see my mayoral theme of Community and Compassion brought to life. Compassion is not just something we speak about—it is something we do, in both small acts and meaningful moments.

Thank you to everyone who took part and made the service so special.

Together, we are one community

17/02/2026

As Mayor, I would like to acknowledge this significant period of this year, during which Lent and Ramadan are observed.

These important seasons of reflection and spiritual discipline highlight shared values of compassion, generosity, service, and care for others. They offer a powerful reminder of the strength found in mutual respect and understanding across faiths and within our wider community.

Abingdon has a long tradition of civic and faith life working together, enriched by diverse voices and beliefs. It is this spirit of inclusion and unity that continues to reflect the true heart of our town.

I extend my best wishes to all observing Lent and Ramadan, and to all members of our community, for a peaceful and meaningful season.