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By the time this letter is published I will be nearing the end of my second term as Wem Town Mayor. Now it is of course a great honour to serve as Wem’s Mayor but, additionally, it’s also a tremendous pleasure. Consequently, to have served for two consecutive years has been special indeed.

But what makes it such a pleasure? Well, that simple really; it’s the people of Wem and, in particular, those who enable so many community groups to flourish. Over the past two years there have been countless occasions when I have been both impressed and humbled by the commitment and dedication shown by so many Wemians to their community. Indeed, you only have to look at the centre pages of this very publication to see a snapshot of just some of the many groups and societies we have. Common to them all is the fact that they would not exist without the willingness of so many people to put in so much energy and give up so much of their own time. Sometimes, these efforts are recognised and rewarded. I was delighted to see the volunteers at the Town Hall receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, 2025. However, most efforts go under the radar - the Carnival for instance is a one day event, but the dedicated team behind it spend the other 364 days making it happen! Events like Vehicles of Interest, the Eckford Sweet Pea Show and the Christmas Lights Festival again only happen because of dedicated teams (and a special shout out here for Wem Rotary who, either directly or indirectly, support any number of community services and events).

The arts must also get a mention. Wem has a flourishing Arts Society; and anyone attending a Wem A.D.O.S. production is guaranteed excellent entertainment. The Community Choir goes from strength to strength, and Wem Jubilee Band never cease to impress with the quality of musicianship. I have used this phrase before, but if Wem has a crown, then the Jubilee Band is one of its brightest jewels.

Of course the local economy is vital to the health of the Town, and it’s been very encouraging to see new businesses open both on and off the High Street. Most recently I had the pleasure of officially opening the new Premier Store based in the old NatWest Bank building; and it’s great to see that long empty property come back to life. Other new businesses include Holiday Creations; Big Al’s Music Emporium; Betsy’s Little Woodland Play Cafe, and Redshed 25 (Old Post Office). These all provide services, and demonstrate great confidence in the Town. Collectively, they have helped improve the High Street environment - and if we can finally get some movement with the White Horse we’ll really be getting somewhere!

Finally, I must mention the area where I believe Wem shows its best face. Over the last two years I have attended the annual Armed Forces Day, VE and VJ Day ceremonies - 2025 of course being the 80th anniversaries of the latter. I have also twice had the honour of being first to lay a wreath on Remembrance Sunday, where the turnout for the parade and ceremony has been exceptional and the two minutes silence immaculately observed. That Wemians turn out in such numbers to show their respect is special indeed, and it’s because of this, and the examples given above, that I can say not only do I like living in Wem, but I’m also proud to live in Wem - because the people of Wem make it what it is.

Cllr. David Parry