Christmas message from Eastbourne's Mayor

The Mayoress and I are honoured that we are spending our 50th year in Eastbourne as its first citizens. We knew that Eastbourne was a great place to live, work and bring up a family and quickly fell in love with the town. Attending the many mayoral events has given us the opportunity to meet and listen to some of the talented and generous residents, who make Eastbourne such a wonderous place.

Eastbourne is a great volunteering town, and we love events where we can talk to and thank the volunteers who give so freely of their time to help others. During my time as Mayor five voluntary organisations in Eastbourne received The Queens Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade available. This is a testament to the generosity of time and spirit of so many and those who give and makes a remarkable place to live Christmas is a time for families.

Sadly, travelling ‘home’ may be difficult this year. When we gather together we will celebrate the season of goodwill with shared joy and happiness. However, some people are not so lucky to have families and once again the good people of Eastbourne have recognised this and there are Christmas events for those who are alone this Christmas.

On Christmas morning the Mayoress and I will visit the DGH, the fire and police stations and on your behalf and thank the nurses, doctors, fire and police officers who are working on Christmas Day ensuring that we are all safe and well. Later we will visit a couple of Christmas luncheons for those alone this Christmas including the Eastbourne Rotary ‘Alone at Christmas Lunch’. We are looking forward to meeting those attending and thanking the organisers. We will then adjourn to our son’s house for a later than usual Rodohan family Christmas lunch.

Lastly, I extend to each and everyone - new and old Eastbournians - a happy and joyful Christmas and best wishes for a healthy, peaceful and prosperous 2023. Remember that if each of us help one person it will make the world a better place.

Councillor Pat Rodohan

Mayor of Eastbourne

More news from Eastbourne