Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge’s Mayor, Michael Clarke, has issued the following Christmas message to residents of the two towns…
“As Christmas fast approaches and we prepare to celebrate this special time of year, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy Christmas.”
“I am now over half way through my second year in office, and the time is truly flying by. Following a wonderful first year as Mayor, the second year has so far proved equally rewarding, granting me the honour of meeting so many wonderful people in our community.”
“This year, in a break with tradition, I appointed no less that four local charities that will be the focus of my fundraising efforts throughout the year. It was a truly difficult decision to make, with so many good causes locally deserving of support. But I feel that the BARB hovercraft, Highbridge festival of the Arts, and both the Burnham-On-Sea Dreamscheme and Highbridge Dreamscheme help so many local people of all ages in a variety of ways. I wish them all well in what they do and achieve.”
“As in the past year, the downturn in the economy is making itself felt for many of us with many families finding it difficult to make ends meet, and the stress and worry that these difficult times bring. Let us hope that those finding themselves in difficulty may have a respite from their problems over the festive season, and are able to celebrate a happy Christmas.”
“This spring saw the Royal wedding of William and Kate, the atmosphere of Burnham and Highbridge was simply wonderful, with so many parts of our communities coming together to celebrate that wonderful occasion. The support Maria and I received from our own Royal street party was well beyond what I expected with many, many people giving their time and support to help make the day the success it was. From visiting many street parties around the towns, to hosting our own party in the afternoon, the whole day was one I don’t think I shall ever forget.”
“We are reminded daily about events in the fields of conflict around the world, and my thoughts go out to all our brave servicemen and women that are away from their homes this Christmas and to their families that are awaiting their safe return.”
“A very special thank you to the many wonderful people that it has been my privilege to meet through out the year. From returning to annual events, to visiting new ones, the warmth and welcome we have received has been astounding, and it fills me with pride to know that there are so many people within our area that work tirelessly to keep our communities alive.”
“To all the people of Burnham and Highbridge, God bless you all, and I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year.”
Pictured: Top, Burnham’s Mayor and Mayoress with Santa, the Mayor’s official cadet and chaplain, and, above, his deputies
