Christmas Message from our Mayor of Charnwood – David Snarrt:  Borough Councillor for Forest Bradgate.

For everyone this has been a most challenging year.  When I was proposed to be Mayor of Charnwood, little did I know how the Mayoral year would change from the normal round of engagements, including now chairing Full Council meetings by Zoom!

Although the number of events and engagements have been reduced, I have been to see some of the good work that has been taking place within communities right across Charnwood.  This was most evident when I presented awards to Community Heroes.  It was humbling to meet so many people, organisations and businesses who had gone the extra mile to help residents in need, especially the elderly and the most vulnerable.
I also visited, along with Tom Barkley, the new Lighthouse Lab in Loughborough which is contributing to the national Covid-19 testing strategy, when fully operational it will have the capacity to process up to 50,000 samples a day.  It is remarkable that this facility is up and running in just six weeks.  This Lab will also provide employment for 400 local people, including recent graduates starting their careers in life sciences at the forefront of the national testing programme.

Since becoming the Mayor of Charnwood in June, it has been a difficult year for us all, many making personal sacrifices throughout this time.  I write with hope and optimism, looking forward to a brighter future through next year and beyond.

Take care and stay safe during the festive break.

David Snarrt