10/06/2026
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I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their kind comments, well wishes, support and encouragement since I took office as Mayor. I am truly looking forward to the year ahead.
I could not do this without the support of the incredible team at the Town Council and the Guildhall, my fellow councillors, and most importantly, my wife and family, whose encouragement means so much to me.
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It has certainly been a busy start.
Following the Annual Meeting and Election, my first official engagement was just days after which was attending Axminster Community Primary Academy's Year 4 Pupils' Book Launch. It was a pleasure to meet the pupils and celebrate their creativity and achievements.
I also attended the Axminster Memory Cafรฉ Coffee Morning. Emma and her team work tirelessly throughout the year to support some of our most vulnerable residents, and I would like to congratulate them on their dedication and commitment to such an important cause.
Another highlight was Axminster's Gate to Plate event, a fantastic occasion that brings our community together through great food, drink and local produce. It was wonderful to see the town so vibrant and busy.
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* Met with our MP, Richard Foord, to discuss traffic, congestion and High Street issues affecting Axminster. He remains aware of the challenges we face and continues to raise them on our behalf.
* Attended a Civic Heads of Council Training Event in Weston-super-Mare, where I had the opportunity to learn from and meet civic leaders from across the South West.
* Met with Claire Hulbert, Headteacher of Axminster Community Primary Academy, to discuss how I can support the school and strengthen community engagement.
* Held discussions with Matt Smith from Waffle and Barrie Hedges regarding opportunities to promote tourism in Axminster.
* Visited Pippins and met with Rev. Kay d'Albertanson, who provided an insightful tour and explained the valuable work being carried out there.
* Spoken with local traders and members of the Chamber of Commerce to better understand concerns regarding High Street footfall. I look forward to working closely with them over the coming year.
I also met with PCSO Hayley Widger, PC Ben Middleton and PC Linda Ebdon to discuss concerns raised by residents, including anti-social behaviour and speeding. I am pleased to report that additional speed enforcement activity is planned for Musbury Road and Chard Road, and there is renewed interest in developing the Community Speed Watch Scheme.
Our local policing team continues to carry out hotspot patrols in areas that have generated concern and regularly hosts "Coffee with a Cop" events, which provide an opportunity for residents to raise non-urgent issues. These events are advertised on social media. I know many residents share concerns about policing, but I was reassured to hear about the commitment of our local officers and their plans for greater community engagement over the coming months.
I was also delighted to attend the launch of Axminster Hospice at Home at the Guildhall. This is a valuable new service that will provide support to residents and families across Axminster and the surrounding area.
Over the coming year, I will be providing regular updates through social media and the Town Council's communication channels so that residents and visitors can see what I am involved in and learn more about the work taking place behind the scenes on behalf of our community.
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I would like to remind residents that my first "Meet the Mayor" surgery will take place on Monday 22nd June from 5.00pm to 6.15pm at the Guildhall.
I look forward to meeting as many residents as possible throughout the year and hearing your thoughts, ideas and concerns.
Thank you once again for your continued support.
Councillor Jack Price
Mayor of Axminster
