A CHRISTMAS message from Councillor Michael Humphrey, Chairman of Fenland District Council.

THE festive season is well and truly with us so I would like to offer season’s greetings to each and every one of you in Fenland and wish you all a very Happy Christmas.

It is an honour to represent Fenland in what has been my second year as Chairman of the Council. Marie and I have had the pleasure of attending many events in and around the district, each unique in their own way. Some have been particularly special.

I cannot let this year go by without mentioning the Olympics, which affected most of us in one way or another, and the excellent Olympians who worked so hard.

So I was proud to attend an event in October to celebrate the achievements of Jody Cundy MBE, Freeman of Wisbech and medal-winning Paralympic athlete who gave up his time to visit local schools to show them what can be achieved through hard work and diligence.

There have been other wonderful occasions. I had the great privilege of hosting a very poignant service to mark Armed Forces Day on June 29, when 44 Veterans were honoured and received their Veterans Badges, which they can all wear with pride.

Then last month I attended Remembrance Day Parades in Chatteris and Wisbech, laying wreaths on behalf of the District Council. They were very different events but they shared a common purpose – honouring our servicemen and women. I was very proud to be involved with all of them.

As the year ends, I would like to pay tribute to two fellow councillors who very sadly passed away during 2012 - Councillor Ken Peachey on July 31 and Councillor Bruce Wegg on October 26.

Both were Members of the Council who showed great commitment in their respective wards and my thoughts are with their families at this special time of year.

Last Sunday we really got into the Christmas spirit at the annual Community Carol Service at Tydd St Giles Parish Church. I was honoured to welcome many distinguished guests and civic leaders as well as friends, family and members of the public. The Army cadets formed a guard of honour and helped with the collection. I am grateful to everyone for making it such a great and joyful success.

On behalf of Marie and myself may I wish you all a Happy Christmas and a healthy, peaceful and fulfilling New Year. May love be in your life, may hope be in your heart and may peace be in our world.