Winter has arrived and the nights are drawing in, but there is a lot to look forward to in Felixstowe.

With Christmas around the corner, it was a real pleasure to switch on the lights in Great Eastern Square. I visited the Felixstowe Lions at their workshop, and saw for myself how much work they do each year to be able to light up our town in readiness for the festive season. The preparation for the following year begins in January, as soon as the lights are taken down. What a task they have! Felixstowe looks amazing every year due to their hard work.

I am looking forward, with trepidation, to my early morning dip on Christmas Day in support of St Elizabeth’s Hospice. There are always lots of participants, and the shared feeling of running into the sea is uplifting. St Elizabeth’s Hospice are a worthy cause, and the support they offer at one of the hardest times of life is priceless. Knowing that you can pick up a phone, and they will be there to offer support, advice, and so much more, can make things a little bit easier to face.

This is such a busy time of year for everyone. Whether you are a Christmas shopper, looking for the right gift for Uncle Henry, or you are a shop owner or worker, keeping the shelves filled, and coping with the footfall, the days leading up to Christmas can be stressful. I always feel a bit relieved when Christmas Eve arrives, as then I can’t do anything else other than peel the vegetables and prep the turkey ready for the next day.

I would like to wish you all a lovely Christmas!

Cllr Corrine Franklin, Mayor of Felixstowe