Provost’s Christmas message 2024

As 2024 draws to a close, it is natural to reflect on events that have shaped our year.

It is an honour to be invited as Provost and to be asked to wear the Chain of Office to attend celebrations, mark our traditions and meet people across East Lothian who work so hard on behalf of their communities and causes they hold dear.

Just some highlights, for me this year, have included judging the inaugural Community Awards run by the East Lothian Courier; attending Remembrance services; meeting Dunbar’s twin town visitors from Lignieres; attending anniversary celebrations at some of our schools including Elphinstone Primary and Ross High School and attending cultural and music events ranging from school concerts to the Lammermuir Festival and Fringe by the Sea.

I particularly enjoy attending Citizenship ceremonies, sharing the joy of individuals and families who choose to become citizens and live in East Lothian.

Special mention goes to the groups and volunteers who support our communities from our In Bloom groups to youth groups and wonderful organisations like The Ridge in Dunbar and the Motorcycle Project in Haddington. I was honoured to attend the British Empire Medal Ceremony of much-loved community champion Isa Thomson and to welcome Ken Macaulay on his charity bike ride – sadly on the day before his untimely death. There are too many groups and people to mention here individually but I thank you all – your work is hugely valued.

Of course, for our food and drink producers, retailers and hospitality businesses, the run-up to the festive period is anything but relaxing! We are fortunate to have vibrant economy and it’s great to meet our business community at the various events and workshops run by our Economic Development Team and partners throughout the year.

Finally, Christmas is a time of giving. Having worked with East Lothian Foodbank over the years I am passionate about the support they offer to others. While nobody should have to use such service, it is a sad reality for many in our area, including families with young children. I’m thankful that such a dedicated team exists locally and would encourage you, if you can, to consider supporting them to help others this season.

No matter how you are spending this festive period – and I know many of you will be working hard to keep our communities supported and safe – I wish you peace, prosperity and good fortune for 2025.

Councillor John McMillan

East Lothian Provost