CHRISTMAS is traditionally a time to reflect on the past year. Here in Evesham, 2018 has seen many things we can look back on with pleasure and pride.
You might not believe it if you get your news solely from the comments on social media, but Evesham’s commercial sector has continued to make progress. For the first time since I moved into the town, every unit in the Market Place is occupied.
The new Waitrose store represents a significant commitment to the town by a leading retailer and we have finally seen positive plans to redevelop the Riverside Centre. Of course, there are still problems to address, but we are definitely moving forwards.
The return of the Battle of Evesham Festival was a triumph for all concerned. I now look forward to this becoming established as an annual event.
And the town’s other festivals have continued to thrive. Our events calendar really is one of the best in the country and I want to pay tribute to the hard work of everyone involved in organising them.
As we move into the holiday season, it’s important to bear in mind the people for whom this isn’t much of a holiday.
For the health services, the police, the fire service and the people working to keep the country’s vital infrastructure running, this can be one of the busiest times of the year. We all owe them our thanks.
Christmas means different things to different people. Whether or not you believe in what John Betjeman called “this most tremendous tale of all”, and however you celebrate the season, I wish you a happy and joyful time.
Coun Mark Goodge
Mayor of Evesham
