THE Mayor of Crediton, in his New Year Message, calls on people to consider what they can do to “Be kind and love thy neighbour”, adding let’s all do our bit to make Crediton an even better place for all of us to live in.

Cllr Steve Huxtable writes: “Hello and welcome to a New Year that will bring days and nights of fun, laughter, tears, joy and despair mixed in with hope, luck and many challenges.

“We are so fortunate to live in Crediton - Crediton is a place that is so special in so many ways - the residents that run the many varied clubs, societies, organisations and businesses that make the town thrive as it does.

“My wife Tina and I moved to Crediton a week before the first lockdown in 2020 and we are delighted that we have made Crediton our home - the community embraced us immediately and neither of us have any desire to live elsewhere.

“We are both keen on playing our part in Crediton's future by supporting activities where we feel we can not only enjoy but add value too.

“What I love is the differing perspectives and opinions that people hold. This is one of the joys of us being individuals.

“These opinions are what make things change, but what we all need to appreciate is that whilst we are all entitled to our opinions that doesn't necessarily make us right.

“This works in all aspects of life, at home, at work and out there in the community too.

“Working together, or more accurately by pulling in the same direction is so much more effective than where there are continual challenges deflecting away from the priorities.

“Many make New Year resolutions - whilst this is going to press in the New Year, please consider what you can do to "Be kind and love thy neighbour" - let's all do our bit to make Crediton an even better place for all of us to live in.

“Please share your thoughts with me on what we can do to achieve this.

“Wishing you a happy 2026.

“You can contact me at: [email protected] .”