New year message from Paul Grimes, Mayor of Royston

THERE is no doubt that this has been a challenging year for Royston and the town has found itself in a period of change. While some will look at this change with regret, others will view it with optimism and hope. The High Street has borne the brunt of t

THERE is no doubt that this has been a challenging year for Royston and the town has found itself in a period of change.

While some will look at this change with regret, others will view it with optimism and hope.

The High Street has borne the brunt of these changes, as the current economic situation is making life difficult for all.

However, I am heartened by some of the positive things that have happened.

As businesses have closed their doors for the last time, several new ones have opened.

By gaining local control over the markets, I hope that they can be built back up and once again attract people into the town, and the success of the Royston BID process has been well documented. As long as the town continues to work together in this way, I feel sure that good things will follow.

What we should take most from the last year is the knowledge that Royston has taken control of its own destiny.

In an age where it is all too easy to give up and expect others to sort out problems, I am proud to be part of a town that has taken this approach.

The hard work of continuing to build on this year's successes begins in January.

For now, in the festive period, it is time to be with friends and family and to eat, drink and be merry.

Both Charlotte and I wish everyone a healthy and prosperous new year.