The role celebrates our communities, supports local organisations and represents Basingstoke and Deane at events across the county. Since May, I’ve been focusing on the themes I set out in my mayor-making speech of improving physical and mental wellbeing by supporting community engagement and promoting volunteering. The Place to be Proud of Awards showcased the best of Basingstoke, from volunteers and charities to businesses and young people making a difference. Basingstoke has so much, and it deserves to be celebrated. This year, I have decided to create a community fund to help community groups and charities organise and run both physical and mental health wellbeing events for people in Basingstoke and Deane.