More than 100 residents attended Ringwood’s Annual Town Assembly on Wednesday 13 May, joining councillors and community organisations at Ringwood Gateway for an evening of local discussion, celebration and community engagement.
Representatives from local organisations and community groups attended the event, showcasing the fantastic work taking place across the town and speaking with residents throughout the evening.
The Assembly gave local people the opportunity to hear about current Town Council projects, raise local issues and celebrate the wide range of community activity.
During the evening, the Town Mayor presented the Town Council’s Annual Report, highlighting key achievements over the past year and outlining priorities for the future.
A special talk was also delivered on the Market Charter 800th anniversary celebrations, reflecting on Ringwood’s rich history and heritage and helping to mark this significant milestone for the town.
Residents raised a wide range of local issues during the Assembly, with discussion covering topics including council tax pressures, local government reorganisation, potholes and highway maintenance, littering and parking concerns within the town. Members of the Council welcomed the opportunity to hear directly from residents and discuss the issues affecting the local community.
The evening also included presentation of the 2026 Community Awards. The awards are presented annually by Ringwood Town Council to recognise individuals or organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to the community.
This year, Councillors unanimously agreed to make a joint award to Greyfriars Community Minibus Service and Ringwood Good Neighbours in recognition of the exceptional support both organisations provide to local residents.
Both organisations play an important role in helping members of the community remain connected and independent, including assisting residents with transport to medical appointments, shopping trips and other essential journeys, as well as helping reduce social isolation for vulnerable residents.
Councillors recognised the dedication of the volunteers involved and the significant positive impact both organisations continue to make within the community. Congratulations and thanks were extended to everybody involved in supporting their work.
The Council would like to thank everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the evening, including the many community organisations, volunteers and residents who helped make the event such a positive occasion.
Special thanks are also extended to Greyfriars Community Centre for kindly providing cakes during the evening and for continuing to support the local community through their new Community Café initiative. Thanks are also due to Brightwater for supporting the event with refreshments.
It was encouraging to see such a strong community engagement and interest in local issues, and the Council is already looking forward to next year’s event.
Photos below are of Ringwood Good Neighbours and Greyfriars Community Centre Minibus Service receiving their Community Awards - click on the photo for full image.
