Agenda item

The Chairman announced with sadness, the passing of the long-standing MP Sir Patrick McNair-Wilson. He had been the MP for the New Forest from 1968 through to 1997.  The Chairman acknowledged that he had played a special role for so many at the meeting, representing the New Forest constituents with such commitment. He spoke on behalf of the Council, and placed on record the appreciation for Sir Patrick’s service and that thoughts were with his family.

Engagements

The Chairman reported that it had been a busy period since his last update on his civic engagements and spoke on the following:

Minstead Trust Showcase and Award Event

On Thursday 6 November, he had attended Minstead Trust Showcase and Award event which had been well supported by civic heads across Hampshire.  

Remembrance Services

He had been honoured to represent the District at the Remembrance Service in Lyndhurst on Sunday, 9 November, along with the Leader, Cllr Jill Cleary.  The Vice Chairman, Cllr Dave Penny had represented the District at the Totton Service.   

Signing of the Armed Forces Covenant

On Monday 10 November, the Chairman reported he had had the pleasure of welcoming Deputy Lieutenant, Mr. Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre, to witness the signing of the revised and updated Armed Forces Covenant by himself, the Chief Executive and the Commanding Officer of 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, Lt Col Tom Goodall MBE.  Also in attendance were other senior officers from the Regiment along with some of our veterans.  The new covenant reaffirmed the commitment to supporting the Armed Forces Community of HQ Solent Station.   Special thanks were expressed to Anne-Marie Cranton of HQ Solent Station, whose dedicated support had been vital in maintaining the strong link with the Military at Marchwood. 

Armistice Day

The Council held the annual Armistice Day commemoration at Appletree Court on 11 November.  The Chairman reported he had attended this along with Cllr Cleary and 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, as well as staff where wreaths were laid at the flagpole.   Thanks were expressed to Cllr John Adams for attending in full regalia to play the bagpipes during the event. 

Solent Mind Annual Celebration Event

On Thursday 13 November, the Chairman reported he had attended Solent Mind Annual Celebration Event where Dr Lesley Stephens, from Hampshire & Isle of Wight NHS Foundation, gave a speech on the 10-year plan to revolutionise the operations of the NHS and the Voluntary Community and Social Enterprises.  This was followed by a presentation from the Chief Executive Officer of Solent Mind, Sally Arscott, where volunteers, who had received support on their life issues, were now helping others.  It was a very moving and well-supported event. 

New housing development openings 

On Tuesday, 18 November, the Chairman reported he had attended the official openings of the new housing developments at White House Way, formally Hythe Hospital and the following week Monday, 24 November, at Compton Road and Old Milton Road, New Milton, formally the offices of the Advertiser and Times. Both were amazing housing projects, and the Council should be immensely proud of them. 

Other events attended included the Beaulieu Estate Dinner, at the invitation of Lord & Lady Montague and the Council’s long service awards. Cllr Penny had represented the Chairman, at the New Forest Brilliance in Business Awards along with Cllr Tipp, which he understood to be a great success. 

Finally, the Chairman reported that the Vice-Chairman and himself had attended several Christmas Carol Services which had put them in the Christmas spirit and wished everyone a lovely Christmas and Happy New Year.