It is Christmas week and I am, as always, pleased to be back home for Christmas in the Moorlands. Everywhere is looking festive with the many decorated trees and fairy lights and I know that our local shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants have been busy selling all our fantastic produce and wares and all that the Moorlands has to offer in the run up to Christmas.
Christmas is always a time to come together and remember those less fortunate. I know just how much local people have been affected by the cost of living crisis and I continue to be a loud voice for our area and raise your concerns with Ministers.
As many of you know, I hosted an event earlier in the year to celebrate the many fantastic community volunteer organisations and charities we have here in Staffordshire Moorlands. I would like to say a huge thank you to all of them, both those who attended the event and the many others who do such good work supporting our community. And a special thank you to every single person who has given up their time volunteering and doing so much for those in need, especially at this time of year.
I also want to thank all those working in the emergency services - the police, the fire service and ambulance crews who will be working over Christmas to keep us safe as well as the doctors and nurses working over the festive period to make sure that our loved ones are looked after and cared for.
Finally, I know that you will join me in thinking of everyone working away from home including all those serving in the forces who are away from home at this special time of year.
I wish everyone in Staffordshire Moorlands a very happy and peaceful Christmas.
The photo depicts a Nativity scene at St Edward's Church, Leek and was taken by Mrs Lynne Ball.
