Column: Taunton mayor Martin Straus's festive round-up

As ever, the weeks leading up to it were anything but quiet, filled with the wonderful bustle that makes this time of year so special in Taunton.

From carol services and Christmas concerts to festive visits and the opening of exciting new facilities, it was a privilege to be out and about meeting so many people who give our town its warmth and character.

One highlight was Carols Around the Bandstand, which raised a fantastic £831.33 for my chosen charity, Bold and Brave, part of Young Somerset.

Given the rather challenging weather, this was an incredible achievement, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who braved the elements and contributed so generously.

Thank you, Taunton.

Not all of my engagements were Christmas-themed, but all were equally uplifting.

I was delighted to attend the opening of the Aspire Centre at Holy Trinity Primary School.

It is always deeply heartwarming to see such thoughtful and dedicated provision for children with learning difficulties, and the commitment shown by the school and its staff was truly inspiring.

I also had the opportunity to attend the opening of the new Sedgmoor Crematorium.

It was fascinating to see how modern technology is being used in such a sensitive and innovative way, allowing funerals to be tailored to the wishes of families.

It was a pleasure to meet again Simon Helliar Moore, managing director of Crescent Funeral Services, and to congratulate him on his recent election as national vice president of SAIF, the Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors.

With its strong emphasis on professional standards and ethics, SAIF plays a vital role in the industry, and Simon’s appointment, with national president to follow next year, is a tremendous honour for him and for Taunton.

Another memorable evening was the Amy Mother and Childcare Foundation Africa Inspirational Award Night, masterminded by the wonderfully energetic Amy Mbanaso.

I was completely taken by surprise, and deeply honoured when the first award of the evening was presented to me.

It was a moment I will treasure.

It was also a joy to return to Aspen Court, which continues to be a real credit to home manager Kim and the whole team.

Special mention must go to Richard, the activities manager, whose talent and dedication have been recognised nationally.

Now mentoring colleagues at other homes, he is very much a rising star and a wonderful ambassador for the care sector.

Art and culture were also well represented, with an outstanding event at CICCIC showcasing the photography of Tomas Castelazo, one of the world’s leading photographers.

Alongside the exhibition, we were able to enjoy a live online conversation with Tomas himself.

His photographs, taken during the World Art Games visit as part of Taunton Together, captured our town from striking and unexpected angles and offered a fascinating new perspective on familiar places.

I was also pleased to visit Sangha House, where I was interviewed by the charismatic Andy Spragg, well known to many through Apple FM, which was always an enjoyable experience.

A few days before Christmas Day, my consort, Lauraine Newcombe, and I undertook our annual visits to community organisations across the town, delivering boxes of chocolates and biscuits as a small token of our thanks.

This year we visited Taunton Police Station, Fire and Rescue Service, Ambulance Station, Samaritans of Taunton, Hamilton Park Nursing Home, Aspen Court Care Home, and Musgrove Park Hospital’s maternity and children’s wards.

These visits are among the most important in the mayoral calendar, as they allow us to meet and thank those who work throughout the festive period, caring for others when many of us are at home with our families.

The final mayoral engagement before Christmas was the Somerset Youth Concert Band.

With the Somerset Youth Orchestra performing elsewhere at the same time, it was a difficult choice, but having previously heard the orchestra, we opted for the concert band and they were superb.

Whether these talented young people go on to musical careers or take different paths entirely, we wish them every success in whatever lies ahead.

After an exceptionally full programme during 2025, I am now taking a short break to recharge my batteries.

I wish you all a very happy new year and hope it brings you health, happiness, and everything you hope for.