The Liberal Democrats have set out a comprehensive plan ahead of the local elections to support struggling high streets across England, including for Folkestone town centre.

Tim Prater, Liberal Democrat campaigner for Folkestone and Hythe described the plans as "exactly the sort of policy we need to boost local investment and ensure businesses in Folkestone thrive."

The Shepway Foodbank is an increasingly important service locally, with demand for its services increasing across the area. Demand for foodbanks is increasing nationally, and that's also evident locally.

As an example, from 1 January to 15 March, the Shepway Foodbank redeemed 287 foodbank vouchers, which has fed 600 individuals (a dramatic increase from the same period in 2018 - 91 vouchers redeemed, 357 individuals fed).

You spoke, we listened, and have got ACTION.

We had a HUGE response to one of our recent leaflets asking about YOUR parking concerns locally. THANK YOU.

We've taken your top local parking problems to Folkestone and Hythe Parking Services, and are reporting back.

In general, most feedback was that the extended CPZ had improved parking for local residents, but that there were still issues. That's what we're trying to address - ways to make the scheme better for all.

When the political landscape is as turbulent as it is at the moment, it is understandable to want to turn your back to it altogether.

But not everyone is able to weather the storm.

With Westminster in deadlock over Brexit for nearly three years, other issues have fallen to the side.

The NHS, police force and schools are dangerously under-funded. Poverty and homelessness are on the rise. Those on welfare are having it taken away from them. Our climate - our planet - is under threat.

The Folkestone and Hythe Liberal Democrat Party and Shepway Green Party have agreed a cooperation deal for the May 2019 elections for Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC).

This form of progressive alliance has been successfully adopted elsewhere in the country at previous elections by the two national parties and improves the chances of challenging the long-standing overwhelming Conservative majority on FHDC.