Subsequent visits were more infrequent, a combination of Folkestone’s decline as a holiday destination and my relocation to other parts of the country. But there were still the occasional cross-channel trips and excursions to the Sunday market in the eighties and nineties, where the thrill of the views from the Leas and the East Cliff still outweighed the sadness engendered by the increasingly sombre seafront area.
As the new century entered its second decade, Folkestone began, largely through the benevolence of former Saga owner, Sir Roger de Haan, to rebrand itself as a destination based principally on art. The regeneration of the old town and creation of the three yearly Triennials with their legacy of public artworks, combined with the crucial arrival of the high speed rail link, made the town a viable place to work, stay and live in again.
Following retirement from the Civil Service, and the passing of my parents, my wife and I moved to Folkestone in August 2016.
Initially, my intentions were to focus on my writing, but shortly after my arrival, I identified a gap in the tourism offer in the town and conceived the idea of offering walking tours (I had, since retiring, attained qualifications in travel and tourism).
The original portfolio of walks of The Leas, the Harbour and Seafront, Creative Quarter and East Cliff has since been extended to cover the West End and Sandgate as well as literary and art-centred tours. Aside from this regular programme, I am always happy to design and deliver walks on any theme and within any area of the town,including Sandgate and Cheriton.
My contribution to the town was recognised in late 2019 when I was adjudged the winner in the Folkestone Home Based Business category of the Annual Business Awards.
After an interesting couple of seasons affected at times by Covid-19, I am now embarking on my sixth season showing locals and visitors alike around this lovely town.
