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So far as parks, open spaces, grass verges and excellent planning
are concerned, we have much for which to be thankful. But that is
not the end. Pleasant gardens, tidy streets, houses whose exteriors
are pleasing to the eye— these factors are also quite important. We
are indeed fortunate that, in Southgate, any passing through the
district could not help but be impressed by what they saw. I am
fully convinced that this feeling of proper pride is also engendered
among our burgesses, that it has a psychological effect on health
which, although perhaps not of major significance, should not be
despised or forgotten. It also shows— and this is equally important—
that there is, in Southgate, a sense of civic responsibility, of pride
in one's possessions and in one's Borough, all of which auger well
for the future. Just as the mind can influence the body, so does the
appearance of the place which we regard as our communal home
exercise a distinct influence on our outlook.
I would again stress that this may not be a factor of profound
importance, but its effect is none the less woven into the pattern
which makes up the life and equally the health of Southgate.
The second point to which I would draw the Council's attention
is the importance of cultural activities. Here again Southgate
is extremely fortunate. Within the Borough, the leisure time of the
burgesses is fully catered for in a manner befitting the population of
the district. We have reason to be proud of the various organisations,
societies and means of securing the right type of entertainment
which exist within our boundaries. This may again appear to be a
comparatively minor point. It actually is not. Our cultural back'
ground should be part of our very existence, and therefore deserves
attention.
It has been very rightly said that everything which affects health
comes within the province of the Medical Officer of Health. It is
for this reason that I raise these points. The fact that the name of
Southgate is associated with a Borough possessing unequalled amenities,
where the civic spirit is high, where the burgesses can enjoy
a full and pleasant life has, in my submission, contributed in no
small measure to the fact that I am able to submit such an
encouraging Annual Report.
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