As we draw a close to this year, I look back on my time so far as the mayor of Workington.

I have had the opportunity to meet and share experiences with so many wonderful individuals and groups, which I will treasure for years to come. I also look forward to building more relationships during the remainder of my time as mayor with the people who continue to make Workington a truly wonderful place to live.

Workington is a not just a town, it is a community, which continues to remain strong through adversity and share in our combined successes. This year I have shared with you the joy of so many events – including the spectacular Kite Festival at Harrington, Workington Go sporting event, the spellbinding Oddsocks performance of Macbeth at Workington Hall and the incredibly beneficial Memory Café, the first of its kind in this town; each bringing its own uniqueness to benefit the local community.

I am also humbled to share the passion and dedication of those who work behind the scenes, without seeking recognition. I feel blessed to meet these people and have the ability to provide them with essential funding and support through Workington Town Council, knowing that these groups, organisations and charities will continue to thrive. I would also like to pass my sincerest thanks to everyone who has taken the time to raise money and donate to my charities this year, Cystic Fibrosis and Team Isla, including the staff at Workington Town Council who ran 5k in the Festival of Running in support.

Looking towards 2018 I hope that we can continue to build upon our accomplishments, to celebrate as a community and be there for each other no matter what the year may bring.

Councillor Ann Bales

Mayor of Workington