I would like to offer Season’s Greetings to everyone in Fenland and wish you all a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

It has been an honour and a privilege for me to represent Fenland for a second year as chairman of the council and to host and attend many civic events in and around the district.

So much has given me pleasure over the past 12 months. These are just a few of the many highlights.

In June I took part in the twinning Visit from Nettetal in Germany. I have hosted a German family for many years and our two families have become close friends – just one example of the way in which twinning cements relationships between people in our two districts.

Later the same month, I was proud to host a poignant church service to support Armed Forces Day and in commemoration of the Great War at St Mary’s Church, Whittlesey.

It was well attended by the Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Association, Royal Air Force Association, Old Comrades Association, veterans and residents.

Equally moving were the three Remembrance Day parades I attended in March, Whittlesey and at Madingley.

It is extremely important to me that we continue to remember all those who have lost their lives serving their country and in particular to honour everyone in our Armed Forces and our allies, past and present, and this fills me with enormous pride.

Our thoughts at this time are with all those currently serving overseas who are separated from their families and loved ones.

We should also remember with gratitude everyone who is at work over this holiday period, particularly those in our emergency services and hospitals.

Other events that stand out in my memory include the civic reception I hosted at Sir Harry Smith Community College in Whittlesey, in July, which allowed me to showcase a local educational facility and Fenland as a whole.

I was also delighted to host our annual Macmillan Coffee Morning in September, supported by staff at the council, local dignitaries and residents.

We raised nearly £600 which, with the aid of the March, Chatteris and District Branch of Macmillan Cancer Support, will all go to help support and benefit the people of Fenland.

Finally, this week we held our annual community carol service at St John’s Church in March, followed by refreshments at Fenland Hall.

I welcomed many distinguished guests and civic leaders as well as friends, family and members of the public to the service. The local army cadets were there to form a guard of honour and help with the collection.

I would personally like to thank everyone attending for making the event such a joyful occasion – one that has truly got us into the Christmas spirit.

On behalf of Kay and myself, may I wish you all a merry Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year.