The mayor of Whitehill & Bordon has concluded a difficult 12 months by highlighting the town’s “special” community spirit in an emotional Christmas and New Year message.

Cllr James Fryer has given his sincere thanks and appreciation to well-wishers for their support after falling seriously ill during the summer.

Cllr Fryer spoke of his pride in becoming mayor before reeling off highlights of his time in office, from Christmas festivities like the switch-on and Best Dressed House competition to Remembrance and the D-Day 80 commemorations.

Bordon Christmas Lights James Fryer 2024
Bordon mayor, Cllr James Fryer, prepares to turn on the town's Christmas lights in the company of the Sacred Heart Pipe Band. (Whitehill Town Council)

He said: “As a father of a young family, I understand how special Christmas can be. The town held its first Christmas Extravaganza this year, the highlight of which was the switching on of the Christmas lights.

“It was lovely to see so many residents enjoying the festivities, and keeping Santa and his elves very busy in their grotto. I very much enjoyed judging the Best Dressed House at Christmas event, and congratulate everyone who took part for their amazing Christmas displays!

“Some of my other highlights this year have been the D-Day 80 Commemoration in June, and the Remembrance Service in November.

“We have a rich military heritage in our town, and maintain a special relationship with the Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers (REME) who supported both these events.

“Christmas is a time for reflection as well as celebration and I would like to give a special mention to my charities this year, Butterflies Bereavement, and Bordon Food Bank.

“I will be hosting a special charity family event in the town next May, and hope you can all attend, have some fun and raise lots of money for these wonderful organisations.

“I would like to offer my thanks to Deputy Mayor, Cllr Lynn Malikoff-Johnston for her support during this busy year, to my partner Mayoress Gemma Bruton and my children, who have accompanied me to events on a number of occasions.

“On behalf of Whitehill town councillors and town council staff, I send you all my warmest wishes for a Merry and Peaceful Christmas, and Happy New Year.”