Ashford Borough Council's Christmas 2022 messages

Season’s Greetings from the Mayor of Ashford, Councillor Jenny Webb

Dear residents

Well, here we are, almost at the end of another year – a year with great challenges, but of also great hope for the future looking forward and never back.

In my role as your Mayor, I am always humbled by the achievements of our wonderful community, and none more so this year. For me there have been many highlights, but two particular events stood out for me and I would like to reflect upon them now.

The first was how our community came together to mark the sad passing of Her Majesty the Queen. Alongside the Leader of the Council, I had the great privilege to be involved with our borough’s ceremonies to mark the occasion and I was taken back by the outpouring of warm sentiments from our residents when I read through the personal notes and messages in the Book of Condolence and on floral displays left in the Memorial Gardens.

The second noteworthy highlight was the Civic Awards held in September. It was wonderful and humbling to hear about the amazing work the many award winners have all been doing and their pride at being acknowledged on the night. They are a credit to the borough of Ashford and deserve every accolade for what they do.

Of course more recently there are concerns over the cost of living impact is having on everyone, especially the most vulnerable in our society. I would like to say please do visit our dedicated webpage which signposts to help and support that is available. It’s important we all come together at this time of year and look out for one another.

As I draw my festive message to a close, I would like to end on a more upbeat note. Despite the great challenges we all face, I am ever the optimist, and know that in times of need the community comes together, and I am sure we will do so again.

There are a number of exciting projects happening, such as the transformation of Victoria Park, new play areas being built across the borough and big plans like the Brompton and Ashford International Studios coming forward.

May I take this opportunity of wishing you a peaceful holiday time and a healthy and happier New Year. Enjoy time with those you love and care for,  remembering absent friends and family members with fond memories, whilst keeping up the sense of community that Ashford is proud to promote and I have been privileged to witness.

Cllr Jenny Webb, Mayor of Ashford

Christmas wishes from our Leader and Chief Executive

Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council and Tracey Kerly, Chief Executive, would also like to extend their Christmas wishes to everyone in the borough with the following festive video which can be viewed below.