Throughout the year there has been a magnificent response to the Lieutenancy’s call for the people of Kent to demonstrate greater support for our armed forces and their families.

All Kent’s local authorities enthusiastically passed unanimous motions of support, translated into action such as the granting of honorary freedoms and welcome home parades.

We also focused on the centenary of the Territorial Army and celebrated the service of all past and present volunteer reservists.

And it was heart-warming to see the public turning out in such force for parades in Maidstone, Medway, Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury and Sandgate to show they care.

Over the festive season, servicemen and women from Kent will still be serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. Our prayers are with them – and especially with their families left behind in our care.

Our thoughts, too, are with the emergency services, those caring for others, and those who are ill or alone.

The global economic situation affects everyone and it is understandable people feel insecure.

But our frontline county has weathered many a storm in the past and at times of crisis the strength of our communities has always pulled us through.

That is why the Lieutenancy will be concentrating on celebrating Kent’s mosaic of communities in the coming year.

We will be pursuing our aim to provide a focus for county identity, unity and pride, give a sense of stability, recognise achievements, success and excellence, and promote service to others.