It has been an honour to serve as your Mayor since May.

From presenting school prizes to judging the carnival floats on what must have been the hottest day of the year; from firing the cannons at the Castle in September to standing with you all at the moving Remembrance service in Gostrey Meadow, and most recently switching on the Christmas lights, it has been a remarkable journey. My wife, Jacoba, and I have enjoyed every moment.

Wearing the Mayor’s chain does seem to come with a certain magic. Wherever you go, people greet you with warmth and goodwill. I am under no illusion that this is down to my own charm; it is the respect afforded to the office, and next year I will gladly return to being “just George”.

Throughout the year, I have seen this role as a chance to shine a light on the strength of our community. Seeing, first-hand, the tireless work of our volunteers has been truly humbling. Your commitment to supporting residents of every generation is what makes Farnham such a special place to call home.

My thanks also go to the staff and councillors of Farnham Town Council for their dedication. We enjoyed another excellent Farnham in Bloom, achieving Gold and Best Small Town in the South East, and my sincere gratitude goes to all the volunteers who gave their time and energy to make Farnham look so beautiful.

Of course, we have all had moments of frustration with the roadworks, the upheaval and the appropriately named “rain gardens”, but the end is in sight in 2026. By next summer, we can look forward to a much improved and attractive town centre.

To everyone I have had the pleasure of meeting this year, thank you for your kindness. May I say what a delight it has been, and thank you for welcoming a Burnley lad into your community and embracing me so warmly.

Jacoba and I wish you all a joyful Christmas and a happy, prosperous 2026.

George Murray, Mayor of Farnham, and Jacoba Murray, Mayoress of Farnham