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Let's be honest – if there is one Glastonbury tradition almost as reliable as Christmas itself, it is the annual conversation about the Town Christmas Tree!

Glastonbury Town Council has officially launched the tender process for the redevelopment of the play area at Abbey Park, inviting the UK's leading playground designers and manufacturers to help create what is intended to become one of Somerset's most distinctive destination play spaces.

Welcome to the August edition of the Glastonbury Town Council newsletter. As we move into Lammas and the height of summer, this edition celebrates a season of growth, gathering and positive change across Glastonbury. We look back at the opening of the newly restored Baily’s Buildings, share news from the Peace Garden and St Dunstan’s House, and celebrate the colourful displays brightening the town for Glastonbury in Bloom. You’ll also find updates on local services, community projects, upcoming events and opportunities to have your say, along with news from the Mayor, councillors and organisations working throughout the town.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Alderman and former Councillor John Coles, whose unwavering dedication to Glastonbury and its residents spanned around 40 years of public service.

Glastonbury Town Council is pleased to announce a renewed programme of specialist maintenance and management for Glastonbury Cemetery, following a review by the Staffing Committee. The Council has received comments, concerns, complaints, and even compliments regarding the length of the grass in some areas of the cemetery, and we would like to update residents on the steps being taken to improve standards across the site.

Glastonbury Town Council is pleased to publish its Internal Audit Report and Annual Internal Audit Report for the 2025/26 financial year, both of which have confirmed that the Council continues to operate with robust financial controls, sound governance arrangements and a strong commitment to transparency.

Glastonbury was delighted to welcome Her Imperial Highness Princess Esther Selassie Antohin of Ethiopia for a special visit centred on peace, community and the town's rich heritage.

Somerset Council has confirmed the appointment of a new operator to manage five leisure facilities across East Somerset, including Glastonbury's Tor Leisure, ensuring continuity of services for residents, schools and community groups.

The latest Glastonbury Town Newsletter includes a review of the Beltane celebrations, a welcome to our new Mayor, Cllr Zoe Price, and a message from the outgoing Mayor. It also features important updates from local initiatives, a public consultation on renovations at Abbey Park, and details of our In Bloom bid for 2026. Further highlights include information about the new Youth Council, allotment availability, and a dedicated signposting page.

Beginning on the Tor at sunrise, a crowd of hundreds gathered to watch the sun rise north of east, with a patch of cloud held at bay as if especially for the display. We were joined by the morris dancers, while the druids present held a short ceremony and singalong. The atmosphere was uplifting. A warm day with a cool wind brought people out in large numbers to celebrate the beginning of summer.

Councillor Price, a member of the Green Party, succeeds in the role after previously serving as deputy mayor. Her appointment also continues a family connection to the town’s civic life, as her late mother Denise Michell served twice as Glastonbury’s Green mayor.