THE strong community spirit of Watchet was highlighted when the annual town meeting was held on Tuesday (April 14) in the community centre in Doniford Road.

The meeting was organised by the town council and saw councillors welcome nearly 40 residents and community representatives, reflecting strong local engagement and interest in Watchet’s progress and future plans.

Watchet Mayor Cllr Loretta Whetlor opened the meeting with a review of a busy and productive year.

Cllr Whetlor said key achievements included securing significant external funding to support community initiatives, delivering youth engagement programmes, and completing a long-anticipated wheeled sports park, made possible with more than £124,000 in successful funding bids.

She also highlighted the council’s ongoing work to support Watchet War Memorial Ground, enabling new community events such as a ‘Santa Run’, and its commitment to improving local facilities, safety, and wellbeing.

Plans were now underway to develop a Watchet Neighbourhood Plan, giving residents a direct voice in shaping the town’s future.

During Cllr Whetlor’s address, tribute was paid to town clerk Jo Grellier, who was leaving the authority after 10 years of dedicated service.

She said Ms Grellier’s professionalism, diligence, and commitment had helped place the council in a strong and stable position.

Councillors extended their sincere thanks and best wishes for Ms Grellier’s future.

It was confirmed that a new town clerk had been appointed and would be joining the council shortly.

The evening also featured presentations from invited speakers.

Nominated High Sheriff of Somerset for 2027-28 Nina Coad outlined her role and highlighted her focus on supporting community safety, volunteering, and strengthening partnerships across the county.

Watchet Neighbourhood Planning Advisory Committee chairman Bernice Scott-Field delivered a presentation on the development of the plan, explaining the process, its importance in shaping future development, and how residents will be able to be involved.

Council committee chairmen presented detailed reports covering planning, finance, staffing, and asset management.

Updates included progress on local planning matters, improvements to council assets, continued monitoring of coastal erosion, and investment in staff support and council operations.

The meeting also celebrated the outstanding contributions of local businesses, organisations, and volunteers with a number of awards presented:

• Best shop award was awarded to The Corner House Café, recognised as a welcoming hub for residents and visitors alike

• The Millington Shield was presented to Knights Templar School Community Association, with two representatives attending to receive the award, recognising the organisation’s exceptional contribution to young people, families, and the wider community

• Volunteer of the Year runner-up went to Jim Nicholas for his longstanding service to local heritage and recreation

• Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Bernice Danby, in recognition of more than 50 years of dedicated charitable work and community support.

The meeting concluded with an open forum which gave residents an opportunity to raise questions of councillors and share their views, followed by closing remarks from Cllr Whetlor thanking councillors, staff, volunteers, and partners for their continued commitment to Watchet.