What a summer we are having this year – who would have thought that it was as hot here as many tourist destinations abroad. And, wasn’t it just the boost we all needed? The sun and warmth has such a positive impact on everyone, putting a spring in their step and a smile on their face; and with a ray of sun everywhere definitely looks brighter and better.
After the recent events in Salisbury and Amesbury a glorious summer couldn’t have been more welcome. Whilst things aren’t quite back to normal, there are real signs of business as usual and since my last blog - and my apologies for not penning a few words sooner – I have visited and attended meetings in both the city and the town and it’s so good to see everyone out and about and getting on with life.
In my view it’s now time to look forward and focus on getting fully back to normal after what’s been a truly unprecedented period and one which I hope we never encounter the like of again. Life is never predictable and we all know that change is inevitable, but what’s important is how we deal with those changes; particularly those that are least expected. The resilience of our local communities has been a credit to Wiltshire and it’s their strength and determination that will enable normality to be resumed.
The last few months have had an impact on council business and I’m keen that after the summer break we can refocus on the future and our immediate priorities. As we start to plan for next year’s budget and service provision we need to strike that difficult balance of doing what’s needed in local communities against service demands and growing pressures.
Next year Wiltshire will host National Armed Forces Day to recognise and celebrate the work of the military and emergency services that put their lives on the line to protect our country, and this year - closer to home - to protect and support the communities of Salisbury and Amesbury. It promises to be a major event for all the communities of Wiltshire and I’m sure it will mark a positive milestone and give everyone something to look forward to. Let’s hope the sun shines as bright next year too!
Jane
