THE year 2016 has proved to be a surprisingly significant year in terms of both world and our own politics.

The election of a new President of the USA,  the European Referendum result, and a new Prime Minister were all outcomes that were generally unexpected.

In the meantime we, at Mid Devon District Council, continue to face the issue that residents across Mid Devon face, namely ensuring that our income matches our expenditure.

With central government funding reducing to local authorities year-on-year, maintaining front line services continues to be a prime objective.

Unlike a number of other councils, we have kept services such as our leisure centres, waste and recycling and our grounds maintenance all in-house.

Although subject to a different budget, our council housing stock remains also in our control.

Rest assured that in 2017, we will continue with our dedicated workforce, to do our very best for all our residents.

May I wish you all a Happy New Year.

Cllr Clive Eginton

Leader

Mid Devon District Council