Bridgwater’s Annual Town Meeting took place on Thursday 16 April at Bridgwater Arts Centre, bringing together residents and community organisations.
Under Section 9 of the Local Government Act 1972, all town and parish councils are required to hold an Annual Town or Parish Meeting between 1 March and 1 June each year.
Before the meeting began, guests were able to view work created and commissioned by Somerset Film, shown across two screens.
One screen displayed historic archive photographs of Bridgwater brought to life through digital technology, accompanied by a spoken reading of A Sketch of Bridgwater (1854) by George Parker, while the second featured images from the forthcoming photography exhibition Skittles Players of Bridgwater by Joss Barratt.
Together, the visuals offered a reflective look at the town’s past alongside a contemporary celebration of its culture and traditions.
Attendees were also able to visit stalls hosted by the Royal British Legion Bridgwater Branch, Bridgwater Men’s Shed and the Girl Guides who were showcasing the work they do in the town.
The meeting was hosted by Deputy Mayor Councillor Leigh Redman, standing in for the Mayor, Councillor Kathy Pearce, who was unable to attend due to illness.
In his opening address, Councillor Redman welcomed attendees and reflected on the past year, describing 2025 as “a year of activity, progress and pride for Bridgwater”. He highlighted a growing programme of events, including Bridgwater Play Day, the return of Bridgwater Fair, the summer events programme and the installations of Luke Jerram’s Gaia at the Town Hall.
Councillor Redman spoke about continued investment in local spaces, including improvements to parks and play areas such as Mansfield Park, alongside ongoing work to support biodiversity across the town. He also referenced investment in community safety, including detached youth work and CCTV provision.
He thanked Councillors, staff, volunteers, community groups, businesses and residents, noting that their collective efforts play a vital role in strengthening community life and supporting the town’s ongoing development.
Representatives from the Mayor’s chosen charity, Bridgwater Men’s Shed, were then invited to speak about their work and the meaningful impact the Mayor’s fundraising efforts over the past year will have on the organisation and its members.
This was followed by contributions from a selection of recipients from the Council’s 2025/26 Project and Venue Grants programme.
Representatives from the Royal British Legion Bridgwater Branch, St Mary’s Church and Victoria Park Bowling Club shared how funding has helped them reach more people and support wellbeing within the community.
The final grant recipient to speak was Somerset Film, with Deb Richardson outlining the organisation’s work engaging local audiences through film, creativity and heritage.
This was followed by a screening of Brick by Brick, a film commissioned through the Animating the Town Deal programme.
The film explores Bridgwater’s identity, challenging negative perceptions by focusing on its people, stories and resilience.
Brick by Brick had previously been shown free of charge for a week at Scott Cinemas in Bridgwater, and the screening at the Annual Town Meeting provided an opportunity for those who had not yet seen the film to experience its message.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Bridgwater Cup, an award recognising individuals who go above and beyond to make a significant and lasting contribution to the life of the town.
This year’s recipient was Ann Marie Gould, recognised for her work supporting residents, volunteers and local organisations to connect, share skills and build confidence. Her approach places inclusion, wellbeing and practical support at the centre of her work.
The meeting concluded with an open forum, giving residents the opportunity to ask questions, share concerns and engage directly with council representatives, reinforcing Bridgwater Town Council’s commitment to transparency.
Bridgwater Town Council thanks everyone who attended and contributed to this annual meeting and looks forward to continuing its work with residents and partners in the year ahead.
