AS HER time in office comes to an end, Amesbury’s outgoing mayor has reflected on a year she describes as “the greatest honour of my public life” – marked by international links, community action and thousands raised for local causes.

Cllr Dr Monica Devendran has finished her second term as mayor, having led under the theme ‘Unity in Action – Building a Stronger Amesbury Together’.

Her year in office has been defined by both local impact and global ambition.

One of the standout moments was helping to formalise a twinning agreement between Amesbury and its namesake in Massachusetts, strengthening cultural and community ties across the Atlantic.

Cllr Devendran with America’s own Amesbury mayor Kassandra Gove and the mayor of Massachusetts.

Closer to home, she championed the town’s identity on a national stage by supporting Amesbury’s Town of Culture bid at Parliament, while also attending and backing a wide range of events; from Remembrance commemorations and Christmas celebrations to the opening of community spaces like the Amesbury Men’s Shed.

Community life is very important to Cllr Devendran.

Alongside MP Danny Kruger, Cllr Devendran attends Westminster promoting Amesbury as the Town of Culture.

A strong focus on community engagement ran throughout her mayoralty, with regular public surgeries and visits to schools, charities and community groups.

Behind the scenes, the council also strengthened its operations with key new staff appointments and sustainability initiatives.

Supporting young people and local wellbeing was at the heart of the year, with more than £5,300 raised for charities and community groups, alongside a further £1,490 for a minibus appeal to help young people access opportunities.

Reflecting on her term, Cllr Devendran said: “It has been the greatest honour of my public life to serve as mayor of Amesbury for the second time.

“This year has shown what Amesbury can achieve when we work together with purpose, compassion, and determination.

“From representing Amesbury internationally, to supporting local charities, young people, veterans, community organisations, and residents, I have been continually inspired by the strength and kindness of our town.

“Amesbury is a community defined not only by its remarkable history, but by the people who step forward every day to support one another and make a positive difference.”

She also commended fellow councillors, volunteers and organisations, thanking them for their support throughout her term, bringing to a close a year that has left a lasting mark on the town.

And finally, she paid tribute to her dedicated family, thanking her husband Prem Kumar, daughter Natasha, parents, and pastors for their unwavering support, prayers and encouragement throughout her time in office.