High Peak Mayor celebrates year in office with Civic Ball

The Mayor of High Peak, Dom Starkey, has marked the end of his term in office with a celebratory Civic Ball held at Glossop Cricket Club.

The event, which took place on Friday 24th April, brought together residents, local organisations and businesses for an evening of entertainment and fundraising. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal and live music from award-winning band “Swing & Some”, alongside a raffle featuring a range of prizes. 

More than £2,500 was raised on the night, with proceeds going towards the Mayor’s three chosen charities: Mentell, Reuben’s Retreat and The Thomas Theyer Foundation. 

In a heartfelt speech, Mayor Starkey reflected on a year he described as “one of the most memorable and incredible”, adding that while it had its challenges, it had “many more highs.” 

“It’s amazing to see so many people who I have met throughout this year here with us to celebrate tonight” he told guests, praising those he encountered as “the fabric of our community”. 

He also spoke about visits to High Peak’s twin towns, including Bad Vilbel in Germany and Oignies in France, saying it was “brilliant to see how valued our friendship and relationships are”. 

Reflecting on his fundraising efforts, he said: “Everything I have done… has been in aid of my wonderful three charities” adding that it had been “incredible to get to know you all so well”. 

He paid tribute to those who supported him throughout the year, thanking his Deputy Mayor, Barbara Hastings-Asatourian, as well as the Mayor’s Secretary, Beth. He also praised his ‘right-hand man’ John for always knowing where he needed to be, describing him as “the most incredible attendant”. 

The Mayor made special mention of his consort, Jean Wharmby. “I don’t know where I’d have been without you this year” he said. “You have been a phenomenal consort and I am so lucky to have had you by my side.” 

Mayor Starkey attended the event on crutches after completing the Manchester Marathon the previous Saturday - later discovering he had been running on a stress fracture. Despite being in pain during the final weeks of training, he finished the race in just over five hours and is now recovering. 

Closing his speech, he thanked the wider community, saying: “To everyone here tonight and the hundreds more I have met throughout this year, thank you… it has been the honour of my life to represent you as your mayor.”