THE hosting of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Games, the introduction of new town councillors following May's local elections and Alton's first entry into the Southern England in Bloom competition were among the highlights of the year named by town mayor Pam Bradford in her Christmas message.

On a more mundane level, Miss Bradford mentioned the provision of new public toilets and the appointment of a street cleaner as significant developments for Alton made during the year.

A full version of this story can be found in the Alton Herald of December 23.