As Christmas approaches, it is time for all of us to reflect and give our thanks to those who make Clacton a great place to live. In fact, a survey published just last week revealed Clacton has jumped one place from 5th to the 4th happiest place in the East of England.

One of those people is Sam King from Frinton who is nearing the end of running 79 ultramarathons in 79 days to raise funds for Headway UK, the brain injury association. Earlier, this year, Sam’s mum fell seriously ill, which resulted in him leaving his job and moving back home from London.

In September he committed to a challenge in her honour: 74 ultramarathons in 74 days, one for every year of her life before she became unwell.

Subsequently Sam decided to increase the challenge he had set for himself and he will now finish his 79th and final ultramarathon just in time to meet his mum as she leaves Frinton Free Church on Sunday morning.

I have truly been impressed by what Sam has accomplished so far and if you have been too there’s still time to support his fundraising efforts.

Another cause that is worthy of your support is the volunteer run Clacton Museum. They will soon lose their current home in Clacton Library when it is demolished to make way for the new Civic Centre. Whilst they have found themselves a new berth, the new site is sadly not big enough to house all of the items that the museum has accumulated over the years.  

They are now appealing for help to support the relocation and storage of a great many invaluable photos, books and other pieces of local memorabilia including a Butlin’s tandem.

It would be a dreadful shame if a new home for these items cannot be found. Once lost these sorts of things cannot be easily replaced. If you’re in a position to help then please do get in touch with the museum’s team. I know they will be most grateful for your support.