As the Mayor of Ferryhill I am delighted to share this festive message with you.
It’s been a year of firsts for me. My first year as Mayor, my first Christmas message, but more importantly, my first Christmas as a Dad! Like many of you, I’m looking forward to spending some time off with my family over the Christmas period.
Firstly, I want to express my gratitude to those who are working over Christmas. To those working in our emergency services, hospitality and other sectors, thank you for keeping us going over the festive period.
This year I have been taken back by the goodwill and generosity of the people of our town. I have long held the view that Ferryhill is at its best when we all come together. This was evident with the large turnout for Remembrance Sunday, as we all gathered to pay our respects. I was also joyed to see so many attend the Christmas Lights switch on this year and the welcome introduction of a “proper” Christmas tree! Perhaps the highlight of the year so far was listening to the beautiful carols from local school children at the Town Council’s Carol Service. They did us proud.
I believe this is an important Christmas for everyone this year. Without dwelling on the negatives, it’s been a difficult year for lots of families. I would ask you all to think of others this Christmas and remember that Christmas is a time for sharing, caring and being a good neighbour.
One lesson I was always taught growing up in Ferryhill was that Christmas is not about how many presents are under the tree, it’s about who is sat around that tree. As a family that experienced loss this year, this message resonates more than ever, so I would encourage you all to treasure each moment with your families this Christmas.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my term as Mayor of Ferryhill and I wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Ferryhill & Chilton's local community newspaper.
