A SEASONAL Message from Cllr Mike Joyce, Mayor of Newton Abbot:

As 2021 draws to a close I am hoping for a happy and healthy festive season but, sadly, we are once again in a state of some uncertainty.

This time last year we were faced with a very restricted Christmas, wondering how much longer we would be dealing with the pandemic.

Then early in 2021 we started to come out of the restrictions and optimism began to reappear.

Now we have fresh restrictions announced by the Prime Minister.

When I talk with people around our town, I get the impression there is concern, yet also optimism and a willingness to do whatever is necessary to enable us all to enjoy the festive season.

For guidance I talked with my Chaplain, Revd Ben Maynard.

He told me: ‘Two thousand years ago at the very first Christmas, life was bleak for the people we encounter in the nativity story.

‘The shepherds were outcasts, the kings were lost, Mary and Joseph were poor, a long way from home and expecting a baby.

‘No doubt they all felt like throwing in the towel.

‘And yet, the whole story is infused with hope, because something beyond their understanding, beyond their wildest dreams was happening.

‘This story reminds us that hope comes in the darkest times, so can I encourage you to keep looking for it this Christmas and into the future.’

Wise words Ben, thank you.

So may I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a New Year that is filled with more optimism than was 2021.

I hope sincerely that you and your nearest and dearest have a chance to meet up and experience at least a taste of what is supposed to be the joy of Christmas.

If I could ask just one favour from everyone though?

Whilst we enjoy the festive season, there are those who are working 24/7 to ensure we are safe and secure.

I’m referring, of course, to the police, firefighters, hospital staff, ambulance crew, coastguards, lifeboat volunteers and countless carers.

So please, give thanks and spare a thought for those who have lost loved ones and for whom Christmas may be less of a celebration than our own.