Last week I was pleased to be able to chair the annual town council budget setting meeting.

We finally approved after much debate a budget which means zero tax increase for Newquay residents. Not only have we set this council on a course for financial stability for next year but also the years to come with inflation being the only variable that will require amendments in future years.

This past year so much progress has been made by setting a clear strategic direction to our officers. I want to personally thank the staff at Newquay Town Council for their tireless hard work and my fellow councillors who engaged in this important work over that time.

Storm Darragh was an unwelcome visitor this past weekend causing much damage to property and infrastructure in Newquay, it is unfortunate that one of the casualties were our gorgeous Christmas display on Cliff Road, we have worked hard this week to make safe and repair what we can.

Last week at the full council meeting I was pleased to get the support of the council to write to the NHS in Cornwall calling for the full reopening of our minor injury’s unit at Newquay Hospital. We understand the challenges that led to the part closure but we as a town need that site to be open. I look forward to a constructive conversation with them.

After the storm, the calm. There will be a high pressure for few days now with light easterly winds, and dry.

There was no damage around the harbour, despite plenty of water coming over North Quay at times. It was lucky it wasn’t a spring tide. Slurp & Chirp went very well last Sunday. No band this Saturday at the Rowing Club.

Thought for the Week: “A smiling heart gives a smiling face “