Shepton Mallet Town Council's chair, Dave Crisfield, has shared a heartfelt Christmas message reflecting on the achievements and challenges of 2024, while looking forward to an even brighter 2025.

Acknowledging the financial difficulties faced by Somerset Council, Crisfield highlighted the Town Council's proactive approach to asset and service devolution, including taking on town rangers, supporting local CCTV operations, and negotiating responsibility for the public toilets and the Friday market.

"Despite the uncertainty surrounding Somerset Council's £100 million deficit, our Town Council has responded positively and worked tirelessly to ensure the best outcomes for Shepton," said Crisfield.

Major projects in 2024

The message outlined a host of community-focused projects that have shaped the year, including:

• Efforts to acquire the Amulet to develop a vibrant arts and community hub, though progress has been delayed due to the General Election and funding uncertainties.
• Advancements on Phase 2 improvements to Collett Park.
• The launch of new Sunday markets, which brought thousands of visitors to Shepton.
• Support for key events such as the Snowdrop Festival, Mid-Somerset Show, and Collett Park Day, along with summer and winter film screenings.
• Infrastructure strides with the Strawberry Line and Somerset Circle footpath projects, marked by the opening of a local stretch in November.

The Town Council also saw success in helping local businesses, such as The Little Farm Shed, transition into larger premises through the business incubation project delivered by Interim Spaces.

A strategy for the future

Crisfield noted the completion and publication of the council's five-year strategy, developed with extensive community consultation. He also praised the council's workgroups for championing causes like flood mitigation and economic regeneration.

"Organisationally and strategically, we've made significant strides, always with the goal of improving Shepton for residents and businesses alike," he said.

Festive spirit and forward focus

The year concluded on a high note with the Christmas light switch-on event on 29 November, which saw hundreds of residents gather to celebrate under the new festive lights and magnificent Christmas tree.

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"2024 has had its challenges, but it has also been a year of triumphs, community spirit, and progress. We look forward to 2025 with optimism and determination to keep improving our up-and-coming town," Crisfield concluded.