Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
December 22, 2014
As the temperature dips and the nights get darker, 2014 draws to a close. In many ways it really has been a remarkable year. We commemorated both the centenary of the First World War and the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings, when Britain stood firm against the forces of tyranny. We also saw the Scottish people vote decisively to remain part of the United Kingdom, and I am thankful that our shared history and values prevailed over the forces of division.
Closer to home, I was delighted when Yorkshire triumphed in the County Championships for the first time in 13 years. However, even this great sporting achievement paled in comparison to the extraordinary triumph that was the Tour de France. The Grand Depart showcased our great cathedral city in all its magnificent glory to a global audience of some three billion people and will, I am sure, be remembered for many years to come.
Looking towards the New Year, 2015 shows every sign of being even busier than the last. The General Election is now just over four months away and dramatic leadership changes at the Council have fundamentally altered York’s local politics. It is my hope that we c
an now all work together to radically change the previous housing plans in order to protect York’s greenbelt and preserve our rural communities for future generations.
For me, Christmas-time has always been about family, and I was delighted to hear the news that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will be welcoming a new addition to the Royal Family next year. I cannot help but spare a thought for anyone who is not able to be with their loved ones at this very special time of year. I am also immensely grateful to all those who work so hard throughout the festive period in our public and voluntary sectors to make sure we have a happy and safe holiday. Additionally, I recently made my annual visit to the Royal Mail in York to say thank them for their hard work in the particularly busy festive period.
So from my family to yours, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
