A Christmas message from the Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council

On behalf of East Riding of Yorkshire Council, I would like to wish everyone a happy, healthy and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Christmas means different things to different people.  For me, Christmas is a time for family, a time to reflect on the good and not so good things that have taken place during the previous 12.

It can also be a painful and sad time for many families, particularly for people who have suffered bereavement over the past year. 

I would encourage people to rally around their family, friends and neighbours and provide them with the help and support that they may need so they are not on their own during the festive season.

Our thoughts must also be with the men and women in the armed forces that serve and protect our country throughout the year who will not be with their loved ones this Christmas as well as the elderly and vulnerable who find the festive season difficult.

The past six months as chairman of the council has been a tremendous experience for me, I have met many interesting people and attended a wide range of functions and events.

I have been overwhelmed by the warm welcome I have received from the people of the East Riding of Yorkshire and feel honoured to represent the area.  

However, I know the past few weeks have been difficult, the weather conditions have caused serious problems for many, let’s hope that the weather will improve over the festive holidays.

So, let us take on board the Christmas message of hope and work towards making our lives and our community a better place.  

Time to recharge your batteries and ready yourselves for the challenges that may lie ahead in 2020.

Christmas is a very special time for us all, a time to spend with family and friends, reflect on a year passed and plan for the New Year ahead.

Councillor Pat Smith

Chairman of East Riding of Yorkshire Council