2019 HAS been an important year for Whitehill & Bordon – only last month the new Oakmoor School opened its doors.

Following the May local elections, I was appointed town mayor by my fellow town councillors and have attended many events across the town to support residents.

These range from Weyford Primary School summer fair and Mill Chase Academy awards evening to the unique Blessing of the Bower and some light-hearted community fun at the Deadwater Valley Trust duck race.

I have supported the Community Association at band nights and the Phoenix Theatre at the Beer Festival. I also represent Whitehill & Bordon at events outside the town, such as the 80th anniversary celebrations for Citizens Advice East Hampshire.

We continue to welcome new residents who have chosen to make our town their home. As Whitehill & Bordon changes through development, it is important to remember and celebrate our roots.

I was proud to raise the Union Flag on Armed Forces Day, attend the D-Day 75th service of remembrance and witness the large number of residents who came to show their respects at the war memorial on November 11, Armistice Day.

At a time when national politics has been polarised, I will never forget the sacrifices that were made so we could be free to disagree with each other and not be afraid to share different views.

I wish to thank my friend and fellow town councillor Cllr Katie Anscomb for being my official mayoral escort and attending events with me, as well as my deputy mayor Cllr Leeroy Scott and his wife Lisa, who have deputised for me too.

I wish everyone a very merry Christmas.