On behalf of everyone at Astley & Dunley Parish Council it gives me great pleasure to be able to wish everyone across the village a very Merry Christmas and to send best wishes for a Happy and healthy New Year.
Whilst Covid has not gone away, it is pleasing that the restrictions we have faced in recent years have been eased and we have the opportunity this Christmas to spend time together with our family, friends, colleagues and neighbours.
Christmas, as always, is a time not only to celebrate, but also a time to reflect on the year that has been and the New Year that lies ahead.
The last year has undoubtedly been a turbulent one with the Russian invasion of Ukraine having consequences affecting the world as a whole.
We continue to think of the innocent civilians caught up in this ongoing conflict and pray that a resolution is found to ensure long lasting peace.
No one can escape the rising cost of living that we are all facing with inflation having reached a 41-year high this year. Prices and household bills are continuing to rise which is a worry for many of us.
Christmas is a time for giving and sharing and I would encourage anyone who can to support those in need this year, be that through donating to a local food bank or by offering a hand of friendship to someone you know who is going through a tough time.
We’re sure the community will come together as it always does to offer kindness, love and support to those who need it this Christmas and going forward through the winter into next year.
As always we should also spare a thought for those who will be working across the Christmas period this year for the benefit of all of us.
We think particularly of our fabulous NHS staff and local emergency services who are always on hand when we need them.
We sincerely wish everyone the most special Christmas filled with love, joy, peace and kindness with very best wishes for 2023.
