The last couple of weeks have been fairly hectic on a personal note juggling home and work life, writes Brecon Mayor Cllr Michaela Davies.

There have been high school applications and various illnesses hitting my household but I have been very lucky to have attended some really lovely events.

First up was Christ College's Musician of the Year. As you all know, I am a huge music fan so this was a truly special evening. Pupils from the upper years of Christ College sang and performed for esteemed judge, Simon Phillipoo of the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama. All of the competitors were fantastic, such confidence at that age is always awe-inspiring. I did not envy the judge on choosing the winners whatsoever. 

March 1 saw local schoolchildren come together en masse to celebrate St David's Day. Singing popular Welsh songs, waving banners and processing through the streets the Brecon, the students of Ysgol Y Bannau, Priory, Llanfaes, Cradoc, Mount Street Infants, Ysgol Penmaes and Brecon High School spread so much joy in a sea of red, white and green while recognising our patron saint. It was fantastic to see so many parents, families and residents in attendance.

Later that evening, the Band of the Prince of Wales held a wonderful and very patriotic concert at Theatr Brycheiniog. As a big fan, I immensely enjoyed their mix of traditional and modern songs, performed to perfection. Who doesn't love a little bit of Tom Jones?

More recently we've had World Book Day, so as a huge bookworm I'd like to share one of my favourite book quotes: "Wen we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too". A beautiful and thought provoking quote from Paulo Coehlo's The Alchemist.

Another major event to acknowledge is, of course, International Women’s Day. I was incredibly honoured to sit on a panel of five at the 'Lessons from Inspirational Women' evening at Peterstone Court on Thursday. It was fantastic to be a part of and to hear so many moving and motivational stories and to celebrate the accomplishments of local women, panelists and audience members alike. 

Lastly, my next big fundraiser is coming soon, a variety show at the Guildhall with some brilliant acts I am privileged to call friends. As always, all proceeds will go to my chosen charities, Brecon Foodbank, Calan DVS and Stonewall Cymru.

This may be my last mayoral fundraiser so I would be so very grateful to see a packed out Guildhall!

The event will take place on Saturday, March 23 at 7pm at the Guildhall.

Tickets are £5 and available from the Guidhall or by ringing 07903621564.