🎙️ The Mayor’s Podcast is BACK for Season 2!

We’re starting a brand-new season of The Mayor’s Podcast, and this month the Mayor of Great Dawley is joined by Shaun and Katie from The Picking Foundation.

In this episode, we hear more about the Picking Foundation, the story behind their work supporting and raising awareness around baby loss, and the Baby Loss Memorial in Jubilee Woods here in Great Dawley. 💙🩷

Shaun and Katie also talk about the work they do, why it matters, and the importance of creating spaces where families can remember and honour babies who are sadly no longer with us.

In this action-packed episode of the Mayor’s Podcast, the Mayor is joined by Luke Twigg, the driving force behind APW Pro Wrestling — the organisation bringing high-energy, crowd-favourite wrestling shows right to Dawley Town Hall.

Luke shares his journey into the world of professional wrestling, the story behind APW and its parent organisation Spotfest, and what it takes to put on some of the most talked-about events in the local area. From behind-the-scenes insights to the growing popularity of wrestling across Shropshire, this episode lifts the curtain on a unique and exciting part of the community.

And it wouldn’t be the Mayor’s Podcast without a surprise or two… including a discussion about the Mayor’s own unexpected ambitions in the wrestling ring.

Join Cllr Ben Carter, Mayor of Great Dawley, as he sits down with Rhonda, the new Landlady of The Queens Head 🍻

They chat all things pub life, from the highs and challenges of running a local pub, to some behind-the-scenes insights you might not expect

This month, Cllr Ben Carter – Mayor of Great Dawley sits down with Shaun Davies MP for Telford for a proper deep dive into life inside Parliament.

🏛️We’re talking:
✨ What day-to-day life as an MP actually looks like
✨ How decisions get made
✨ Behind-the-scenes insight you don’t usually see
✨ And what it’s really like walking the corridors of Westminster

In this episode of the Mayor’s Podcast, the Mayor of Great Dawley, Cllr Ben Carter, is joined by Jamie Blakeman, owner of local business The Larp Inn. Together, they dive into the world of LARPing (Live Action Role Playing) — what it is, how it works, and why it’s far more than just dressing up. From foam swords and fantasy costumes to community, creativity, and running a niche business in Great Dawley.

In this episode, Cllr Ben Carter - Mayor of Great Dawley, sits down with the incredible Lisa Stevens, a singer who’s basically become the soundtrack of our community.

From Motown bangers that get everyone vibing, to performances across Great Dawley, Telford, and beyond, Lisa has built a reputation as one of our brightest local talents.

Ben and Lisa dive into her musical journey, her favourite moments on stage, what keeps her connected to the local scene, and why Motown just hits different.

This month on the Mayor’s Podcast, Cllr Ben Carter sits down with Great Dawley resident Pete Jackson.

Pete opens up about his cancer diagnosis, the road through treatment, and the incredible support he received from Lingen Davies Cancer Support Charity – where he now proudly serves as a trustee. He also shares the fundraising challenges he’s taking on this year, including tackling the London Marathon with a twist and even a visit to the Houses of Parliament.

Pete is raising money for the Lingen Davies Sunflower Appeal — a £5 million campaign dedicated to expanding cancer care across the region. The appeal will help create a brand-new Lingen Davies Chemotherapy Centre at Telford’s Princess Royal Hospital, set to open in 2029, with support from organisations right across the borough.

To boost his fundraising further, Pete has even written a book about his personal experience of cancer treatment — using his story to inspire others and shine a light on the importance of local cancer support.

You can purchase Pete's book, and support the appeal by visiting:

https://www.lingendavies.co.uk/product/keeponkeepingon

In this episode, the Mayor is joined by Cllr Ollie Vickers, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy & Transport. Together they shine a spotlight on the High Street Heroes Awards — a celebration of local businesses across Telford & Wrekin that go above and beyond for their high streets and communities.

Don't forget to vote for your Dawley High Street Hero by clicking here.

https://www.telford.gov.uk/roadworks-transport-and-streets/pride-in-our-community/pride-in-our-high-street/high-street-heroes/

In Episode 2, the Mayor of Great Dawley catches up with Spencer, landlord of the Elephant & Castle, which has now been open for a year since its much-anticipated re-opening. They discuss how the pub has been revitalised — from its fresh new look to the introduction of a kitchen — and share some of the spooky stories of the local pub.

Join Cllr Ben Carter, the Mayor of Great Dawley, as he talks to people from the local community to find out what's happening in and around Great Dawley.