Last week, the West Suffolk Conservative Association hosted its much-anticipated Annual Dinner, a gathering that saw members from across the West Suffolk Constituency come together in unity and purpose. The evening was not just a celebration of our shared values and visions for the future but also a poignant moment to honour a remarkable individual whose legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew her.
We commenced the evening with a moment of deep reflection and a minute's silence, paying tribute to our late Chair and dear friend, Mary Evans. The recent news of Mary’s death has left us all in shock and deep sorrow. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with her beloved husband, Richard, during this incredibly difficult time. Mary’s unwavering dedication, warmth, and visionary leadership have been a beacon of inspiration for us all, and her absence was profoundly felt by everyone present.
The evening's proceedings included speeches from distinguished guests who not only spoke to our collective aspirations but also inspired us with their insights and commitment to service. We were honoured to have Nick Timothy CBE, our Prospective Parliamentary Candidate, who shared his vision for the future of West Suffolk, drawing on his extensive experience and dedication to public service.
Tim Passmore, the Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner, provided an enlightening update on the efforts and achievements of the Suffolk Police, reaffirming the importance of community and safety in our constituency.
Our guest speaker for the evening, the Rt. Hon. Tom Tugendhat MBE VR MP, Minister of State (Home Office) (Security), captivated the audience with his profound understanding of security issues and his unwavering commitment to our nation's safety and prosperity. His insights into current challenges and opportunities facing the UK were both enlightening and inspiring.
The evening was not only about speeches; it was a time for members to come together, share experiences, and foster stronger bonds within our community. The camaraderie and spirit of the evening were captured in the photos of our esteemed speakers, Nick Timothy and Tom Tugendhat, whose presence added a special significance to the occasion.
As we reflect on the evening, we are reminded of the strength and resilience of our community. We are inspired by the legacy of Mary Evans and motivated by the words of our distinguished guests. Let us carry forward the torch of service, dedication, and community, honouring Mary’s memory in all that we strive to achieve.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed to making the Annual Dinner a memorable and meaningful event. Together, we continue to build a brighter future for West Suffolk.