At the Annual Council Meeting, held on Tuesday 5 May, in front of invited guests and dignitaries, the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Lucy McGirr gave a farewell speech after a successful year having raised over £3,100 for her nominated charities (East Folkestone Youth Club and United Response, Community Network Cheriton). The final task of Cllr McGirr’s term was to present Mr Tim Geere with the KALC Community Award for his dedicated service in supporting the Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Association and Sea Cadets as well as his valuable work with local community groups and support to the Town Council.

Councillor Lucy McGirr was presented with a gift from Councillors and thanked for her hard work in promoting Folkestone and raising money for charity throughout the year.

Councillor Jackie Meade was elected The Worshipful Town Mayor of Folkestone for the year 2026-27. The Mayor announced Revd Kate McNeice as her Chaplain for the year, Cadet Ewan Simpson from the Folkestone and Hythe Sea and Royal Marine Cadets was named as the Mayor’s Cadet and Cllr Meade named Mr Bryan Garrigan as her Consort.

The Town Mayor announced that her nominated charities for the year will be The Shed Urban Wilderness, Sunflower House Food Support Project and Folkestone Nepalese Community Centre.

Councillor Meade commented “It is a great honour to serve as Mayor once again. I will work tirelessly to promote our wonderful town and raise money for the Mayor’s

Charities. I look forward to seeing old friends and making new ones, and to supporting the wonderful community projects we have here in Folkestone.”

Councillor Nicola Keen was elected as Deputy Town Mayor and thanked Councillors for the nomination.

If you would like to invite the Mayor to an event, please contact georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk or call 01303 257946.