HASLEWEY Community Centre was packed with well-wishers for Haslemere Mayor Sahran Abeysundara’s civic reception to celebrate his busy year in office.

Outgoing Waverley Mayor Chris Storey and Farnham Mayor John Ward were among the many guests, who were treated to a Sri Lankan buffet and live music.

“Haslemere is a very special place because of all of you,” Sahran said.“Tonight is my way of saying thank you.

“I wondered if I was too gay or ethnically diverse to be mayor of Haslemere, but it doesn’t matter who you are.

“We all contribute as individuals to strengthen the community around us and I’m blessed to live here in Haslemere.”

In a symbolic farewell gesture, Sahran presented Sri Lankan clay oil lamps to six of the town’s leading lights - former mayor Melanie Odell, ‘community Ken’ Griffiths, dementia campaigner Ann Downing, town crier Christian Ashdown, Haslemere Hogs organiser Brian Howard and SilkRoad’s Linnet Bird.

“Beloved mayor,” Melanie said in her speech of thanks: “You have been totally committed to Haslemere and you have taught us to be more open thinking in our ways.

“As a community, we are incredibly grateful to you for dedicating this year to us in Haslemere.”

The new mayor will be sworn in on Thursday, May 18.