Every year, around March, the Town Mayor of Folkestone has the privilege of awarding local people a Town Mayor’s Community Award.  Previous recipients of this award have varied from volunteers of a local church to people working to support those most in need.

This year, it was the turn of Councillor Abena Akuffo-Kelly who was delighted to be able to show her appreciation to members of the community who go out of their way to make a difference in the town, without asking for recognition in return.

Nominations are sought from members of the public, and this year was no exception in the number of nominations received and the varied activities undertaken by proposed nominees for the Town Mayor’s Community Awards.

Councillor Abena Akuffo-Kelly said “As Mayor, I am lucky enough to have regular contact with so many individuals and groups who collectively shape Folkestone into a wonderful place to live.  These community champions are an exceptional group of people who use their energy, ingenuity and talents to organise events, help those in need and enhance the sustainability of our environment. Without them, Folkestone would lose much of its colour and vibrancy. So, on behalf of Folkestone, I thank them for their service and dedication to our beautiful town.”

The following recipients of a Town Mayor’s Community Award 2024/2025 were invited to afternoon tea in the Town Hall and presented with certificates and gifts from the Mayor in recognition of their achievements:

• Jay Cross was recognized for his support to young people by providing training and emotional support, and support to other charities such as KRAN and the Construction Youth Trust.
• John Barber was recognized for his work in organising musical performances at the Bandstand, attracting large crowds into Folkestone, boosting the local economy.
• Paul Reynolds was recognized for his work in organising various fundraising events for local charities in Folkestone, as well as supporting the local radio station.
• Ram Bahadur Pun was recognized for his work with the Nepalese Community in supporting individuals and their families through cultural and language barriers.
• Go Folkestone Electrical Recycling Waste Project for their work in raising awareness of electrical recycling, raising community spirit and making a positive difference to the environment by reducing electrical waste going to landfill.

The Mayor thanked all of the recipients of the Awards on behalf of the Town Council and local community for the work undertaken, which helps to make Folkestone an attractive and safe community to live and work within.

Nominations will be open for the Town Mayor’s Community Awards 2025-26 from around October this year, so if you know someone who you think deserves some recognition, keep your eye on our website (www.folkestone-tc.gov.uk) and Community Magazine for information on submitting a nomination or contact the Folkestone Town Council office on 01303 257946 or georgina.wilson@folkestone-tc.gov.uk for more information.