Happy New Year to you all, I am aware it's the end of March and I do apologise for neglecting my Blog. I have been very busy recently and it has been difficult finding the time to sit down and write my Blog, so here is my attempt to catch up and let you know what I have been up to during the past few months. My first Civic invitation for 2009 was on Sunday 1st February, when Derek and I were invited to attend the re-ordering of Ulverston Parish Church. For the past 9 months the Church has been undergoing a refurbishment and the service was part of the re-opening and re-ordering of the building. It was a lovely service attended by the Bishop of Carlisle and representatives from the various organisations/businessess that have been helping with the improvements. My next invitation was on March 2nd, when I was asked to open the new premises for Animal Welfare of Furness. For a number of years Animal Welfare have had a Charity Shop in Ulverston, but the old building was cramped and they were unable to display the array of goods they have for sale. The organisation decided they must move to larger premises in Upper Brook Street. The opening was attended by staff, volunteers and customers. All had a very busy morning selling and buying goods to help this worthy cause.