20 February 2026
Hello everyone, I hope you have had a lovely week. It's been a strange week for me. I've had some family and personal issues and have had to rely on others to cover some meetings and events for me which is very much appreciated. I am also without a car at the moment until my new one arrives, so I feel a bit lost!
I started the week by having a catch up with Tracey Carter, Director of Regeneration and Inclusive Growth, Chris Renahan, Assistant Director for Inclusive Growth and Development, Cllr Paul Rowling and Cllr Richard Eglington to get an update on The Shambles on Stockton High Street.
This was followed by a meeting with Martin Skipsey around the Annual Governance Statement which Mike Greene, Chief Executive, and I have to sign off.
In the evening, I met with the Labour Group ahead of the full Council meeting on Wednesday night.
On Tuesday morning I had my regular catch up with Jonathan Nertney, Head of Democratic Services where he updates me with what is going on in the department. I then picked my Dad up and we went out for a lovely lunch.
I attended full Council on Wednesday evening where we had a vote on the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP). We have some difficult times ahead with our budget and it's certainly tough to make some decisions but that's part of being a Councillor and the Leader.
On Thursday I had a day off to support my daughter at James Cook hospital where she was undergoing a medical treatment. Councillor Clare Besford visited the Stockton-on-Tees Employment and Training Hub to attend the Preparing for Adulthood event on my behalf. This event brought together young people aged 13 to 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) from across the Borough, offering them and their families the chance to meet with over 40 providers and organisations that offer support, guidance, and information about their options and future pathways.
On Thursday afternoon, Councillor Paul Rowling attended the press preview of 'Becoming La Voix' on my behalf. Later that evening, he kindly picked me up and took me to Preston Hall Museum, where I enjoyed the preview of the fabulous exhibition.
The 'Becoming La Voix' exhibition showcases the extraordinary career of La Voix, singer, performer and entertainer proudly from Stockton-on-Tees. It was a great evening, and I would recommend you go along and see some of the fabulous costumes and props on show.
Today I am attending the memorial service of former Councillor and dedicated member of our community, Chris Coombs.
This Saturday (21 February), we have a team of workers including Andy Woodhouse and Ali Woodhouse taking part in a 12 hour Darts Marathon at Stockton Town Football Club clubhouse in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Macmillan is a charity that is very close to my heart and I hope you will offer support and donate if you are able to.
Whatever you are doing this weekend, I hope that you have a great time.
