Introducing a new series for Macclesfield Nub News, the Mayor's Column.

Last year 2024 was eventful for our town Macclesfield. We had a general election which saw the election of new MP Tim Roca, I wish Tim well I already know that Tim is keen to represent the town and act as our voice. I would also like to thank David Rutley our former MP for his service both to Macclesfield and our country. 

We had the chance in June to remember our veterans of D Day. Those men and women on land, sea, in the air, in factories, on the land and at home who together defeated the greatest evil the world has seen. In November, on Remembrance Day, we reaffirmed our promise not to forget those who laid down their lives, were injured in body and mind, and who served our country. 

I started my own terms as Mayor in May. My theme is Building Our Future Together. As town we possess a strong sense of community, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and a range of local independent businesses that we need to nurture and support. A special thanks to Totally Local and Made in Macclesfield. Since May, I have had the joy of attending many events, breakfast with our veterans, rewarding the children who undertook the Library's summer reading challenge, the Silk Museum attending concerts at KEMS, Chordiality Choir, the Macclesfield Male Voice Choir, the visiting Macc Pow and learning to draw a comic. My apologies if I missed anyone out, it is a long list. 

In 2024 councillor Livingstone visited many local organisations and businesses, including Macc Pow (Credit: Mayor of Macclesfield)

As a volunteer myself, the work of the voluntary groups and charities do to support the community is inspiring and uplifting. I enjoyed the warmth, spirit and care in numerous places in the run up to Christmas, at the Just Drop In, Macclesfield Seals, and the ROAR carol concerts I saw pride, fellowship and lives being built or re-built. The Town Carol Concert with the Silk Brass Band saw the roof of St Michaels being lifted up and gently placed back. 

I am proud to support our charities and this year I am raising money for two local charities Space 4 Autism and Macclesfield Community Art Space. So far by ziplining across a quarry in Wales, Bingo I have raised around £4,000 with a Burns Night Ceilidh to come. Macclesfield is the town that adopted me, I will always be a Scotsman. 

The free events with free bus travel runs builds our community, allows all to join in and brings locals and visitors to the town. The events like the 1261 parade, Macc Pride, Spooky Saturday, and free events in August were a joy. We are lucky to have such a talented town council team. This month in January we will see some light in the darkness to chase away the cold and the dark. Northern Light and the Lunar New Year on February 1 will add light and noise. I am looking forward to them and the Book Festival at Christ Church. 

One last request, when we commemorate World Holocaust Day on January 27 please light a candle. Let us never forget and always challenge evil and those that would divide us.  

Councillor Livingstone took on a zipline in Wales to raise money for his chosen charities (Credit: Mayor of Macclesfield)