News Mayor's Christmas Message
From Frank Townshend, Mayor of Snaith and Cowick Town Council.
"This summer, as we are all aware, we have seen widespread devastating flooding. The East Riding of Yorkshire was one of the most badly affected. Regardless of what may be driving the weather, it is clear that major changes are taking place.
"As a result, we are likely to see more heavy rains and local flooding in the coming years.
"Many voices have been raised against the policy of building development on flood plains but we should not lose sight of the fact that, historically, humankind has always lived on these plains.
"This is because, from time immemorial, rivers have been our lifelines and commercial highways. As a result most towns and trading centres are sited on rivers.
"We need to deal with the situation we have, rather than what we would like to have. While local authorities, as well as central government can and must take urgent measures to deal with these emergencies, we can all take steps to minimise damage to our own properties.
"In some areas people have come together to form action groups to co-operate with the government and the Environment Agency to develop ways of dealing with these devastating events. If you have such an action group in your area I urge you to join it.
"If you do not have a local action group, it would be worthwhile trying to set one up. Being prepared is much better than having to take steps after the disaster has happened.
"There is a perception that crime is on the increase. Police on the other hand, report that crime figures are down.
"This may well be because many of us see no effective response from police. As a result, many crimes go unreported. However, if we do not report all incidents to police, we cannot expect any improvement in their response.
"We should all report every occasion we see of criminal and anti-social behaviour, no matter how insignificant it may seem to be.
"Only by swamping the police with these reports do we stand any chance of getting a change of attitude from them to our local concerns.
"It is not entirely a picture of total disaster and misery. There are many instances of local people working hard to do things for their local communities, including many young people.
"Sadly, we tend to hear a great deal about youth misbehaviour and very little of those who contribute positively to their local neighbourhoods.
"Let us all give due recognition to those of young people where it is appropriate.
"I wish you all a joyous Christmas time and a Happy and Peaceful New Year."
Published on 20th December 2007 in News.
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