The Town Clerk Chronicles: Reflecting on Remembrance and looking forward to Christmas

Communicating and engaging with our community is a vital part of the Town Council’s role, and we will continue to resource this moving forwards.

It’s a while since we’ve published a regular Newsletter and even longer since Barnstaple’s Town Clerk had a regular column in our local press. I would just like to say a quick word of appreciation to those who have responded so positively to this new initiative.

This month I will reflect on what was a very poignant Remembrance weekend. Conflicts around the world are very much in our thoughts in current times and it’s fitting that each year we pause to take heed of the many who have lost their lives.

Remembrance Sunday saw a large number of wreaths placed at the War Memorial, whilst those gathered stood solemnly to pay their respects. I thought the moment when the ‘last post’ was played really stood out this year, with the notes echoing around a silent but packed Rock Park.

Despite the inclement weather, there was an impressive turnout, with the North Devon public continuing to show their support for this annual event. I’m also glad to be able to confirm that the town council is supporting the Routes of Remembrance initiative organised by The Veterans Charity.

Part of this worthy scheme enables wreaths to be re-used, especially the millions of red petals, which cuts back on plastic waste. Our wreaths will be repurposed for use next year, saving on the manufacture of further unrecyclable material.

A word also on the Children’s Remembrance Service which took place on the preceding Friday. We are so pleased to organise this special service, attended by children from most of the local schools.

A lot of thought and effort goes into the making of their hand-made wreaths and the children’s service plays a vital role in maintaining respect through the generations.

As the December days have ticked by, our thoughts have turned to the festive season, and I was glad to see so many turning out for the annual Christmas Lights Switch On. A big thanks to Jade Kingdom for illuminating our town! I would also like to thank the Town Council team for their efforts in organising this event.

We are always pleased to receive feedback and any thoughts on how we might improve these occasions in future years.

The event also marked the first of a series of late-night shopping on Thursdays, through to December 22. Local retailers will be opening their doors later than usual and many Barnstaple car parks will be free to use. It all goes towards helping our local businesses and traders, who we are keen to support.

On a more general note, Barnstaple has seen some major developments these last few months, with others likely to come during 2024.

The end of November saw the opening of the newly refurbished Pannier Market, instigated by our colleagues at North Devon Council. We were pleased to collaborate with this and the town as a whole always benefits when our local representatives and tiers of government co-operate with each other.

There has been some pleasing feedback recently regarding the ‘look’ of the town, in particular from residents noticing the cleanliness of our streets and pavements, as well as the various floral decorations. This is a good example of how local councils and stakeholder groups can come together for the benefit of the community.

A note of praise here for our own Town Rangers, who continue to work hard for the wellbeing of the town.

In the new year I hope to be able to share some positive news about further developments in Barnstaple. We will no doubt continue to face many challenges, but we look forward to 2024 with optimism. Meanwhile, I wish everyone a joyful festive season and will catch up with you again in the new year.