08/05/2026
My Final Week as Mayor of Brackley.
As I come to the end of my year as Mayor of Brackley, with tomorrow (9th May 2026) being the Mayor Making ceremony where Kim and I will hand over our chains, I felt it was only right to reflect on my final week and, more importantly, to say thank you to our wonderful community.
It has truly been a year I will never forget - the pinnacle of my journey so far. If I’m completely honest, when I first took on this role, I wasn’t entirely sure I could do it. Over the past year, I’ve not only learned so much about Brackley and its incredible people, but also a great deal about myself. In many ways, it’s been a journey of discovery.
This past week perfectly sums up what makes Brackley so special.
Friday 1st May started bright and early with the traditional Brackley Morris Men and Women dancing on the Piazza outside the Town Hall. It was wonderful to watch and yes; they even encouraged me to join in!
We followed that with a lovely breakfast at The Crown Hotel, catching up with many friends before heading to the Local History coffee morning at the library. There were some fascinating displays and videos, and of course, plenty of coffee and cake.
Saturday 2nd May saw me back in Scout uniform for the AGM of the 5th Brackley Scout Group at Horley Camp. It was fantastic to see so many familiar faces from my 10 years as a scout leader, and I was genuinely touched to receive a thank you award from the group.
Tuesday 5th May was an afternoon visit to the wonderful Chatty Café at The Crown Hotel. This is such a fantastic initiative for Brackley. They also meet at Esquires Café on Mondays and the Paisley Pear on Thursdays. You are always guaranteed a warm welcome.
Wednesday 6th May began with a visit to the Saints Project at Brackley Town Football Club an inspiring initiative started by the lovely Kim Grantham and her fantastic team of volunteers. It was great to see so many familiar faces, including visitors from care homes, the Methodist Church, and even two past Mayors.
In the evening, I attended a fascinating Brackley History Society talk at the Methodist Church about Brackley’s Bottom Station. 1850 to 1963.
Thursday 7th May while visiting the town centre I popped into the Chatty Parrot for a catch up with the Mental Health Friends group. I had a nice talk with Claire Readman and her family who do so much good for our community. Everyone can suffer from a mental health problem at any time during their lives and having somewhere to go to just relax where you know there is always an open ear is invaluable.
Friday 8th May (VE Day) was a busy and meaningful day. On the Piazza, Brackley Royal British Legion hosted a wonderful stall playing 1940s music, raising funds through sandwiches, cakes, and a raffle while promoting Armed Forces Day and their Veterans’ breakfasts.
From there, we visited the Brackley Community Larder at Egerton Hall, a truly outstanding voluntary service supporting our community week in, week out, whatever the weather.
We then spent time at Brackley Care Home, where members of Chatty Café were visiting residents. Once again sharing conversation, warmth and yes… more coffee and cake!
We finished the day back at the RBL stand to draw the raffle.
And so, as this chapter comes to a close, I want to say a sincere thank you to everyone in Brackley. You have been so friendly, welcoming, and supportive throughout this incredible year. It has been an absolute privilege to serve as your Mayor.
I may be stepping down from the chains… but you won’t get rid of me that easily! I’ll still be around, continuing to attend events across the community.
Thank you again, Brackley it’s been an honour.
Bernie Tiller
Mayor of Brackley 2025–2026
Royal British Legion Brackley Chatty Cafe Brackley Chatty Parrot Café The Brackley Morris Dancers The Saints Community Project Brackley Care Home Brackley Community Larder Brackley Town Council Mental Health Friends
