The Christmas Message, from The Worshipful Town Mayor of Folkestone, Councillor Michelle Keutenius.
Last Christmas we found ourselves in a difficult position, as most of us spent time separated from our loved ones, as families were not able to celebrate together as we usually would.
Some swapped presents in the cold on doorsteps, some celebrated months later, elderly relatives either held virtual visits or waved at their family through a window. The isolation was at its worst for so many.
Thankfully, this year we are in a slightly different place. As I write this message, it looks like we can hold Christmas together, but we should use caution to keep each other safe. Covid 19 is still around us, but the remarkable effort of the vaccination program has given us the last few months of semi-normality and a chance to see those we missed.
Christmas is a time of family cheer for some and holding those dear to us and remembering those we have lost along the way. This time can also be an incredibly hard period for many, even without a Pandemic ongoing in the background.
I urge you to look for the silver lining in our world, support others by spreading good cheer and glad tidings. Just a simple smile though a mask can make all the difference.
I give thanks to all those who have helped us get through these last two years, the key workers, the volunteers, the care workers, NHS staff and all who work to support us.
Stay strong, stay safe and spread non-Covid love this Christmas. I wish you all a very merry, healthy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
The Worshipful Town Mayor of Folkestone, Councillor Michelle Keutenius