Privilege to be in office

OUTGOING Mayor Alan Carson spoke of the privileges and joys of being first citizen of Craigavon as he handed over the mantle of office last week.

His highlights included several VIP trips to the area including a visit by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

He counted it as a privilege to be able to raise £7,000 for several charities including the Motor Neurone Disease Association, A21 the British Heart Foundation, The Reach and the Neal Turkington Nepal Project.

He particularly thanked Almac Sciences where he works for their co-operation and support.

He said it was amazing to be able to open Portadown Boat Club’s new facility, the new St Johns Scout Hall and the award winning Community Hub in Brownlow,

He mentioned various awards and businesses he had attended including the Lurgan Youth Parades and Lurgan Shows.

“Thanks also to the Portadown Times and Lurgan Mail for their excellent coverage over my year in office,” he said.

“It has been a really busy year, it has also been very enjoyable and a real honour to serve the people of Craigavon as first Citizen,” said Cllr Carson.

Outgoing Deputy Mayor Cllr George Savage said he also enjoyed his year in office. He particularly enjoyed the two Lurgan Shows and the European Mounted Games held at the Silverwood Arena.

Cllr Savage said: “Events such as Winter Warmer events for the elderly, Country Comes to Town and the Scottish Youth Football Association visit were also memorable throughout my term and I always enjoy meeting up with Mr Matt Farrell and the Councillors from Ballina Town Council. I am glad that formal links now exist between Ballina and Craigavon and hope that this relationship will grow from strength to strength.”

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