A Christmas message from the Mayor

Published: 18 December 2025

The Worshipful Town Mayor of Deal, Cllr Mike Eddy, "Christmas and New Year is a time for looking back and looking forward.

"One of my first official engagements this summer was to meet the King when he visited our town.

"Deal had to bid to be chosen for a Royal visit.

"We explained our creative and cultural heritage as well as the extraordinary nature of the volunteering and charity work that goes on here.

"So, I was not surprised that Deal was chosen.

"It has been my privilege to see first-hand the impressive dedication to all manner of causes.

"The volunteers who tend to and share the bounty and beauty of the Captain’s Garden.

"The spirit of community that exudes from the Deal Pirates.

"Everyone who donates goods or gives their time to support the Foodbank and Pantry, making sure no-one goes hungry.

"But, and there is always a but, to share with you an entirely candy-coated-Christmas message would be a disservice as we all see what is happening in the world around us.

"A rapidly changing climate – politically, environmentally and culturally - uncertainty and insecurity.

"There are bad actors at play.

"Close to home we know people are struggling and so I am pleased our Deal Warm Welcome has returned for a fourth year - giving food, friendship and warmth to those in need.

"It is again supported by a wonderful team of volunteers, Deal Area Foodbank, United Families, Home-Start and the NHS Social Prescribers.

"And it’s not just finances that are effecting our communities. Groups like Talk It Out continue to give vital one-to-one support and we, as a town council, have adopted a health and wellbeing strategy to help improve the lives of all our residents.

"In November we welcomed the news that our bathing water was no longer classified as poor. It is now deemed good and it is safe to swim.

"While we, of course, remain vigilant and we know much work still needs to be done.It is that pressure for change and our community’s response that has impressed me most this year.

"Deal’s proximity and relationship with the sea runs through us like the letters in a stick of rock – and how we, as a town, were galvanized into action is a source of real hope and pride.

"It has been my pleasure to see and share what really makes this town extraordinary. And it is our people.

"We are blessed here in this most characterful, colourful and welcoming corner of Kent.

"So, from myself and all the councillors and Town Hall team here at Deal Town Council, I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.