The Town Mayor had the honour of hosting a civic reception on 29th April 2022, to mark the end of his Mayoral term.
Outgoing Mayor Councillor Michael Jefferys said:
‘’I have enjoyed the privilege of being Mayor of Newmarket since May 2020. My term of office has therefore coincided with the pandemic. Although the pandemic has caused much hardship and worry, in some ways we have witnessed the people of Newmarket at their very best. From the very beginning, the town council joined with other organisations to set up a helpline. We were able to deliver leaflets to every household in Newmarket, offering advice and letting the residents know about the helpline.
From day one of the first lockdown, an army of volunteers responded to the calls to the Helpline. There were volunteers who queued at supermarkets, volunteers who collected prescriptions, and volunteers who walked dogs. There were volunteers who helped their neighbours and volunteers who helped strangers. No one was left on their own. Everyone who asked for assistance received help promptly and without fuss. It was a remarkable achievement.
But in these troubled times, we cannot forget the war in Ukraine. I am therefore delighted that tonight we have been joined by representatives from the Polish and Ukrainian communities. You are constantly in our thoughts and in our hearts.
Newmarket’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic was celebrated as an example of best practice to other Suffolk towns and beyond. So many organisations and individuals came together and collaborated for the benefit of everyone. We can be proud of everything we achieved in those desperate times. Newmarket responded to a crisis and showed the town at its very best.
Tonight I wanted to thank everyone who has volunteered in some capacity, not just during the pandemic, but who has given their time to help others. Thank you for everything that you have done. ‘’
