In his Christmas message, Mayor Councillor John Byrne takes a moment to extend warm greetings to the residents of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn, expressing gratitude for the privilege of serving as Mayor throughout 2023.

The Mayor's reflective words highlight the remarkable unity and strength that defined the community during the past year.

"As we gather to celebrate this joyous season, I am filled with gratitude and a deep sense of pride in being the Mayor of our extraordinary community throughout 2023," Cllr Byrne begins, setting the stage for a message that captures the essence of the year gone by.

Acknowledging the challenges faced globally in 2023, Cllr Byrne singles out Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn as a beacon of togetherness amidst adversity. "Our unity is our greatest asset, providing comfort and solace in these unsettling times," he states, emphasizing the resilience that the community exhibited during the various challenges encountered throughout the year.

The Mayor takes a moment to remember Private Joshua Ainsworth, a serving soldier who tragically passed away shortly after participating in the town's Remembrance parade. "His memory serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made within our community, reinforcing the importance of supporting one another through thick and thin," Mayor Byrne remarks, honoring the memory of a community member who contributed to the town's collective strength.

Expressing immense pride in Newtown's togetherness, Cllr Byrne highlights the Town Council's active efforts throughout 2023 to strengthen community bonds. "The inauguration of the Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Partnership was a significant step forward, fostering new relationships in key sectors and enhancing our town's future," he shares, underscoring the collaborative spirit that characterized the town's response to the challenges faced during the year.

Reflecting on the events hosted in the past twelve months, Cllr Byrne applauds the town's vibrant atmosphere and enthusiasm. "Each gathering has been a testament to the energy and spirit that permeate our town, showcasing the collective pride we share in being part of this beautiful community," he notes, recognizing the positive momentum generated through community events.

Looking ahead to 2024, Mayor Byrne expresses anticipation for the opportunities the new year will bring. "Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn's future is bright, and I cannot wait to see the continued growth and success that we will achieve together," he states, underscoring the community's resilience and dedication as sources of inspiration for future endeavors.

His full Christmas message is printed below.

As we gather to celebrate this joyous season, I am filled with gratitude and a deep sense of pride in being the Mayor of our extraordinary community for another year. It has been an absolute honour to serve you, and I want to take this moment to extend my warmest Christmas greetings to each and every one of you.

In the midst of the challenges and uncertainties that surround us, Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn stands as a beacon of togetherness and a testament to the strength of community spirit. Our unity is our greatest asset, providing comfort and solace in these unsettling times. As we come together to celebrate the holidays, let us cherish the bonds that make this community a truly special place.

This season holds a bittersweet note as we remember Private Joshua Ainsworth, a serving soldier, who participated in our town's Remembrance parade and tragically passed away shortly thereafter. His memory serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made within our community, reinforcing the importance of supporting one another through thick and thin.

I am immensely proud of the togetherness that defines Newtown, and I am pleased to share that the Town Council is actively working to build upon this foundation. The inauguration of the Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Partnership is a significant step forward, aiming to foster new relationships in key sectors and enhance our town's future. None of us can alone but together, we can shape our place into an even more vibrant and thriving community.

Over the past twelve months, our town has hosted a multitude of events, further solidifying our reputation as a place of vibrancy and enthusiasm. Each gathering has been a testament to the energy and spirit that permeate our town, showcasing the collective pride we share in being part of this beautiful town.

As we approach the dawn of a new year, I am filled with anticipation for the opportunities that 2024 will bring. Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn's future is bright, and I cannot wait to see the continued growth and success that we will achieve together. The resilience and dedication of our community are truly inspiring.

In the spirit of the season, I wish you all a Merry Christmas filled with love, warmth, and cherished moments with family and friends. May the coming year, 2024, be a source of joy, prosperity, and new accomplishments for each and every one of you.

Thank you for making this community the incredible place that it is. Your constructive contributions, spirit, and involvement play a vital role in shaping our shared identity. Together, let us continue to define Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn as a place of unity, strength, mutual support and boundless potential.