THE mayors of Fordingbridge and Ringwood have praised their communities for the way they have adapted to the challenges of 2020 and the coronavirus pandemic.
Councillor Edward Hale, the Mayor of Fordingbridge, said: "I have been really impressed by the way residents and businesses in Fordingbridge had adapted to difficult conditions during 2020. We have an excellent display of Christmas decorations.
"The town has continued to support residents through the Community Fridge and The Hub, and businesses have encouraged us to support them through the Keep the Heart Beating scheme. We have some new businesses and others offer additional services to bring more visitors to our High Street."
"The Town Council has continued all services during 2020 and it has been great to see the Recreation Ground and other facilities being used whenever possible. 2021 will have some challenges with continued restrictions, and current planning applications,"
"To improve facilities, the Town Council is going ahead with refurbishing the Recreation Ground changing rooms, and making plans for better use of our Victorian Town Hall. We are also supporting the improvements at Avonway and working with Fordingbridge Greener Living to encourage tree planting.
"I hope everyone has the best Christmas they can in these difficult times, and I look forward to achieving the best for our town in 2021."
Ringwood mayor, Councillor Tony Ring said: "Congratulations are due to our whole community, individuals and organisations for the disciplined approach to Covid related challenges that has kept our area free from a major level of infection so far, though of course I wish to convey sincere condolences to those who have suffered loss and regret to all for the turmoil inflicted by this wretched disease."
He added: "2020 has seen many social events cancelled but I am pleased to say that Ringwood has achieved a celebration of Christmas with better than ever street festive lighting, a superb town Christmas tree and the Winter Wanderland experience of shop, business premises and house Christmas window displays with competitions for all to join.
"So please do enjoy the festive season as much as circumstances will allow. Have a happy and healthy Christmas and look forward to 2021 being a much better year."
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