On behalf of Ferryhill Town Council, after such an incredibly difficult year I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year.
I don’t think anyone could have imagined at the start of 2020, the challenges that this year would bring. I sincerely hope that you are all able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable break in the company of your loved ones, whilst also sparing a thought for those in the community who are less fortunate.
I am very proud to be the Mayor of such a strong community as Ferryhill, and I know everyone will pull together to help those most in need at what can be the most wonderful time of the year, but can also be the most difficult.
I am confident that we can all help and support each other to enjoy the festive period; be it checking on an elderly or vulnerable neighbour, donating food, clothes or toys to a local charity, or remembering to support local businesses by spending local where possible.
This year I would like to say a special thank you to those who continue to do so much to support our communities, and will continue to work over Christmas to enable the rest of us to enjoy the festive season. A special thanks to the fabulous doctors and nurses in the NHS, care workers, the police, fire service, hospitality and retail workers and those who keep our utilities running. We all owe them a massive debt of gratitude. And, not forgetting, of course, our clergy who help us celebrate why we do all this in the first place! I hope that you are all able to enjoy some time with your families this year.
Due to the Pandemic, Ferryhill Town Council was forced to cancel its events programme and many of its plans for the year however, I am proud that scaled back commemorations still managed to be held to mark the 75th Anniversary of VE and VJ Day, Armed Forces Day, Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.
I was also honoured to present Civic Awards to those in the community who went the extra mile this year, and to those who brightened up the Town with their floral displays, as well as being able to present the two charities, which I had chosen to raise money for during 2019-2020; the Solan Connor Fawcett Family Cancer Trust and the Ferryhill Scouts, with a cheque each for £1,457.50.
To ensure that a little festive joy could still be spread in the Town this year I was extremely proud to switch on the Town’s Christmas Lights on the 27th November, accompanied by Paul Howell MP.
I was also honoured to be invited by local schools through Approach Too, to choose one of the children’s Christmas themed designs, to use in a Poster displaying a Christmas Message from Ferryhill Town Council to the public. A huge thank you and congratulations to Jessica from Dean Bank Primary School whose design was chosen and can be seen in the large advertising board in the Town Centre.
The Town Council continues to make plans for the future, and is very much looking forward to working with, and supporting you all in 2021.
Best wishes to all!
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