While we are all looking forward to the Coronation festivities this weekend, this joy is contrasted by the heart-breaking violence that continues in Sudan. It is deeply saddening to see a country all too familiar with violence and instability experience another dark chapter.
Recent days have seen the UK undertake the largest and longest airlift of any Western nation, evacuating over 2,000 people from the country, and I am hugely grateful to the armed forces personnel who have made this operation possible.
Although the Government’s airlift operation has now ended my thoughts remain with the Sudanese people and diaspora, particularly those living here in the UK who will be fearing for loved ones still in Sudan, and the Government continues to work with regional and international partners to help restore stability and support ongoing aid efforts.
This weekend ushers in a new era with the Coronation of Their Majesties the King and Queen at Westminster Abbey, a weekend that will be cause for celebration across communities across the United Kingdom and Commonwealth, with events taking place everywhere from Fylde to Falmouth, Folkestone to Fraserburgh.
The passing of Her late Majesty last year was truly the end of an era for our country and while we will never forget her service, the focus is now on the future, with this weekend a chance for His Majesty the King to set the tone for his reign.
Having borne witness to the late Queen’s decades of service, His Majesty the King has also long been a fantastic servant to this country. He has a proud record of charitable work, most notably in seeking to give opportunities to young people from challenging backgrounds through the Prince’s Trust and championing environmental causes long before the issue entered the wider consciousness.
I am certain that this will continue, and I know that I join people across Fylde in wishing him, and the new Queen, all the very best ahead of this weekend and the years ahead.
Saturday saw AFC Fylde win away in Bradford to confirm their promotion from English football sixth tier as league winners. The Coasters’ meteoric rise over recent years has been spectacular and I am incredibly proud to have seen the club grow from their humble origins at Kellamergh Park to the fantastic stadium and facilities and Mill Farm. While the club were relegated during a pandemic disrupted season, I am absolutely delighted to see them return to the National League Premier and a heartfelt congratulations to all those involved.
The club remain in good hands under Chairman David Haythornthwaite and once the richly deserved celebrations have calmed down, I am sure that he, Manager Adam Murray and their players will be working hard to mastermind another successful season and, fingers crossed, another promotion.