Christmas is a time of reflection, generosity, and togetherness- a chance to celebrate with family, friends and neighbours, and to share the spirit of kindness that makes our Chilton community so special.
Throughout the year I have been overwhelmed by your generosity, always ready to step in and provide support even when times are personally hard; not least with the numerous donations we have received for our Toy Appeal which will help ensure no child in Chilton will wake up on Christmas morning without a gift to open. This year 30 local children and their families have benefited from your kindness.
And I would like to thank those who have given their time to ensure the success of the many community events we hold, be it summer fairs, firework display, Remembrance and Civic Services, Christmas light switch-on, fundraisers and coffee mornings – even a Santa sleigh. These events bring us closer together with a shared sense of purpose and pride in our town.
I also extend my special thanks to every emergency service and care worker, members of the armed forces and those in the service industries and hospitality who all work so hard over this Christmas period to make sure we are all safe, secure and cared for.
2026 will no doubt bring with it new opportunities and challenges but as a community we will face then head on working together to celebrate our heritage (it is a centenary year for the Town Council and Miners Welfare Trust) promote local achievements and navigate new developments to ensure that our community benefits and is a place that we are all proud to live and work in.
So, as the new year approaches let look forward with hope and continue to reach out to our those around us with the warmth and care that defines us as a Chilton community.
On behalf of the entire Council, I would wish you a very merry festive break and a new year filed with joy.
Cllr Sue Reece, Mayor of Chilton
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
