Firstly, I would love to say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. What a year 2025 has been. Whether you’ve had an amazing year or a more challenging one, as it draws to an end let us all take time to unwind and reflect.

For me Christmas is about the food, the festivities, seeing the smiles on the children’s faces and a time for being with loved ones, so I hope you can spend this precious time together making memories. For those who are unable to do so, for whatever reason, I hope you are still able to enjoy the festive spirit of the Season. I wish to extend special thanks to every hospitality and emergency service worker for all the hard work they put in over Christmas.

Finally, I wish to give my thanks to all charities in Folkestone for all the support you give to residents throughout the year.

Merry Christmas to you all

Cllr Lucy McGirr