As we move into 2026, I am halfway through my term as Mayor. It has been a privilege – and a bit of a burden – to take on the role. I have discovered more about Woodbridge during this time than in my previous 33 years living in the town. The range and number of volunteers we have undertaking all sorts of things for the benefit of residents is truly amazing.

When our new Twinning friends from Doullens in France visited us in October, they were struck by just how broad the volunteering effort is in Woodbridge. In France, the State is expected to be the lead in many areas. However, I know that in some cases our older volunteers are struggling to attract a newer, younger cohort to ensure that this British model of doing things persists. So, please do consider coming forward in an area that most interests you. Contact a relevant group or failing that seek guidance from the Town Council.

Shortly after becoming Mayor, I was confronted by the latest local government reform programme. The message is clear – local communities need to decide what level of ambition they have for their community. But in setting that ambition, they must not assume that other arms of government will pay for it.

The Town Council is willing to play its part, but we should all recognize that this will come at a cost which will be collected through your council tax. In 2025-2026, a Band D property in Woodbridge paid £2,290. Of this, £160 went to Woodbridge Town Council, which is about £3 a week per household.

Are you prepared to pay more to your Town Council to increase its work for the Town? That is the question we in Woodbridge will need to resolve in the next year or two.

After six months in my role as Mayor, my thanks to all our volunteers, to our residents, to those who work in our town and to our visitors. My thanks also to my fellow Town Councillors (who are also volunteers) and to our clerking team. Wishing you all a very happy New Year from the Christmas lights switch on event.

Stop Press: during the public session at our November Town Council, a local resident expressed concern about the spread in Woodbridge of the so called “tree of heaven”. This is a very invasive tree that destroys biodiversity and is spreading in our town. At the subsequent Climate Committee meeting, it was agreed to set up a community interest working group with the aim of eradicating the tree from Woodbridge in both public and private spaces. You will be hearing more about this initiative.