THROUGH the good offices of your newspaper, may I please be permitted to express a public vote of thanks to the outgoing Mayor of Okehampton.
Christine Marsh has been at the helm of our affairs for five years, a long stint in this taxing position.
Throughout that time she has never given less that 100% of herself on our behalf, very much beyond the call of normal duty.
Christine has shown total commitment to what she considers 'this special place'.
During her term in office Okehampton has seen considerable change and has grown significantly. The legacy she leaves behind will perhaps manifest itself in a few year's time to the advantage of the district.
Simmons Park has been given a new lease of life and will continue to improve. Various moves are being made to open up more avenues for walkers/ramblers. The Sports Centre/swimming pool will become a reality.
Indeed, in many respects the future looks rosy. However, an obvious blot on the horizon is the apparent failure to create job opportunities.
This matter requires both the most serious and urgent attention.
Councillor Tony Leach, the incoming mayor, has said he is keen that Okehampton should not be developed into simply a 'dormitory town'
I hope he will go down in history as the mayor who leads us forward into a period of 'balanced prosperity' for the whole district.
It remains only to say, Christine, well done and thank you.
To Tony Leach our very best wishes for a happy and productive term of office.
Ted Cann
11 Exeter Road
Okehampton