WELL, the weather is telling us that winter has arrived. Whether it's a white Christmas we'll have to wait and see.
The cold weather didn't spoil the fun at Lighting Up Brentwood (Saturday, December 1). It really was a great event.
It was an honour to lead the candlelit procession up the High Street and to switch on the lights with Isabelle Champion, our Christmas card winner. I was also at the Ingatestone Victorian evening and was pleased to be at Shenfield's first lighting-up event. A thoroughly enjoyable few days all round. My thanks to everyone who helped to organise and run all these great events.
At this time of year I am particularly enjoying visiting care homes in the borough. I will also be visiting the emergency services to pass on our thanks for their service and hard work.
All my events and visits have reminded me what great communities we have and the sense of co-operation, support and partnership. I encourage you to consider how you can make a difference in 2013.
Christmas can be difficult for some, especially the homeless, bereaved and lonely, do please think of them.
May I wish you all a merry Christmas and a peaceful new year.