Bracknell

Representatives from the borough's voluntary organisations, businesses and members of the Council joined the Mayor of the Borough of Bracknell Forest Cllr Clifton Thompson at the annual civic reception on Friday (March 30).

Other guests included the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire Philip Wroughton, Bracknell MP Andrew MacKay, Windsor MP Adam Afriyie, local businessman John Nike, other local mayors, and Council staff.

The prestigious black-tie event was held at the Licensed Victuallers' School in Ascot and is an annual celebration where the borough's first citizen gives thanks to everyone who has supported his term in office.

In his after dinner speech Cllr Thompson reflected on the year and events which will shape the borough for years to come. He referred to the granting of outline planning permission for the redevelopment of Bracknell town centre, the introduction of alternate bin collections, signing the multi-million pound RE3 contract, obtaining funding to rebuild Garth Hill College and the start of building of new housing developments at Peacock Farm, Staff College, and the Met Office.

He commented that the borough was going from strength to strength and described it as a good and safe place to be with a thriving business community.

Cllr Thompson thanked the Bracknell Deputy Mayor Cllr Gill Birch, the Mayor's Chaplain Canon Brian Meardo and his secretary and chauffeur for their support during his mayoral year.

He said: "During my year in office, I attended many events and have been impressed by the work in the borough to help others - often by unpaid volunteers - and by the support of the business community. The civic reception is a way of saying thank you.

"I would also like to thank everyone who has supported my chosen charity, Age Concern Bracknell Forest, and helped by raising or donating money.

"My wife Sue and I have had a wonderful year in office, and we are both extremely proud and privileged to have served the community in this way."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council