ILMINSTER: Looking forward to 2010

She has mentioned the bad times as well as the good and is looking forward to 2010, with the news that Ilminster Town Councill will not be raising its precept.

In her message, the mayor said: “The end of the year is usually a good time for us to reflect on the previous 12 months and each of us in our own way will know of the delights. disasters and disappointments we have experienced throughout the year.

“Over the past few months we have had to deal with a myriad of things that are way beyond the control of ordinary people like us. Floods, snow and ice.

“A banking crisis that caused a deep recession. The scandal of some MPs being on an expenses gravy train at the tax payer’s expense. A war in Afghanistan that the majority neither want nor understand. The list seems endless and too depressing to dwell upon.

“On a lighter note for Ilminster, the Market House has been renovated, the tennis courts resurfaced and new posts and fencing erected. Two bus shelters are being put in along Canal Way, five grit bins were put in place just before the recent cold spell and several new and extra dog/litter bins are awaiting installation.

“As always the community spirit and sense of belonging prevails. Volunteers from Ilminster and the surrounding area have given so much of their time, financial and general support for and to the many charities and other organisations. 

“So many events have taken place during 2009 that are for the benefit of our community and enjoyed by so many that it is difficult to name them all. 

“To those of you who have contributed in any way, you know who you are, but to all of you, a very sincere thank you.

“Staying on the bright side, I am very pleased to say that with regard for our residents during this recession, the guidance of our town clerk, Stephen Fisher, prudents budgeting and some interesting exchanges between councillors, Ilminster Town Council has agreed that there will be no increase in the precept for 2010, which will remain the same as 2009.

“Somehow during the festive season and at a time of rebirth, hope swells eternal and we try to put all the disasters and disappointments behind us and look forward to what we hope will be a better future for ourselves, our friends and families and dare I say, that a solution will be found for the confilict in Afgahnistan and there will be peace in our world.

“My sincere good wishes to everyone for a peaceful, prosperous, healthy and a happy new year.”

 .ff