HASLEMERE Mayor John Robini’s New Year message:

“I would like to start by thanking all the volunteers and everybody in the town for the work they do in the community and wish you all a happy new year.

My year as mayor will finish in May 2020 – just a few short months away.

Since starting in this role, the time has rushed by.

I have attended many events with my wife Jacquie, the mayoress, visiting residents, charities, and organisations at the heart of the town.

We have been surprised by the numbers of volunteers who support them, freely giving their time and ideas.

The new year will bring many challenges to our community.

Brexit is promised, which will affect us all and government cuts will have to be managed carefully to protect the vulnerable.

The town council has recently agreed the climate change emergency ‘green’ motion.

The town council’s declaration of a climate change emergency in September will need support from all our community to help reduce carbon emissions and our reliance on plastic and similar materials.

We must also protect any local wildlife, and ensure that we leave our beautiful countryside protected for future generations.

I am very confident that 2020 will be a happy year for us all. Public events such as the Charter Fair and the Fringe Festival are always well attended, with everyone enjoying themselves.

I will also be continuing to raise money for my local charities, Haslewey, the museum and the stroke club.

I plan to include a musical act – Mates and Godfrey – in March, a car boot sale and a golfing day in April, plus other events.

I wish you all a happy and prosperous new year.”