As the year ends, I want to send my thoughts and best wishes to all constituents following a quite extraordinary 2020. 

This has been the most challenging of years. Whilst it has not been a year any of us would have envisaged, and even less welcomed, the manner in which communities across East Sussex have rallied around each other has been incredible to witness.  

Our NHS and healthcare teams have rightly been lauded for the manner in which they have treated residents and put themselves in harm’s way. Just as special has been the response from many other organisations. Staff in our schools and colleges have kept young people educated. Our Councillors, officers and clerks have kept our essential local services operating and been at the forefront of grant payments. Our local news and media organisations have kept the public informed. Local charities and civic organisations have reached out to help others. Many reading this will have been part of this Herculean effort. 

None of this has come without its cost and I am sure many of you are exhausted from it all and will also have your own concerns about the financial and public health implications from this year. I would simply like to say, to all constituents, thank you. I hope, despite the difficulties, you will find time to reflect on your community’s contribution with pride.  

The vaccine roll-out has now begun in Sussex. The virus rates remain high in our county. Let’s not lose the last battle after we’ve done so much this year to hold the lowest rates in the country. Stay safe, have a Merry Christmas and let’s look forward with optimism.