AS we prepare to celebrate Christmas and welcome in the new year, one reflects on the past months.

We have so much to be proud of in our town with its distinct communities, and I have been immensely impressed by the contribution made by many organisations and groups to keep Farnham special and help those who need support.

2015 has been a good one for Farnham Town Council with external recognition in a number of service areas including double gold and category winners for the Farnham in Bloom, being runner up in the National Association of Local Councils Star Councils Awards and being a regional finalist in the Civic Trust Awards for the restoration of West Street Cemetery Chapel.

We have organised many events and activities for our residents and businesses to help keep Farnham a thriving economy and vibrant town.

My thanks go to all of you who have supported these and also to the many businesses and individuals who have sponsored them.

The festive season is often seen as a time for families, but not everyone will be able to relax – some will have to be on duty particularly the emergency services to protect us and keep us safe.

We also know that some people will not be with their loved ones this Christmas and to them we send our special good wishes.

We particularly think of those serving in the armed forces across the world and their families here at home, especially those who are in Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (the Tigers) whose A company Reservists are based in Farnham.

Many people will have lost loved ones and for some people this can be a time that highlights their loneliness. So please make an extra effort to greet your neighbours who live alone to make them feel special and part of our wonderful community.

I am honoured to serve the people of Farnham as mayor and already have some wonderful memories of being with young people, older people, sports people, students, local businesses and residents.

As we look ahead to 2016 there are lots of challenges facing us as a town and I am sure we will overcome these and go from strength to strength together.

I am particularly looking forward to commemorating the centenary of the first ever two minutes silence which took place in Castle Street in May 1916.

On behalf of my fellow councillors, town clerk and his staff, may I wish you all very happy Christmas and a happy, healthy and peaceful new year.

Pat Frost

Farnham Town Mayor