The national experience of managing Covid must count as one of the most traumatic experiences of the modern age. The huge contributions made by our local public and voluntary services towards keeping the show on the road were just so impressive. It was particularly heartening to see local people connecting and helping each other out in a much more comprehensive way than existed pre-pandemic. If we can sustain those links, then some good will have come out of the bad.

This year was marked by the high of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the low of her passing, with much reflection on the massive contribution she made over such a sustained period. An example to us all.

Many people also took the time, during Covid, to reconsider their lives, their work habits and leisure activities. For me this resulted in a repositioning of some of my interests in Parliament. In particular, I was elected to the Public Accounts Committee.  This, the oldest committee of the House, is responsible for reviewing whether value for money is achieved by public bodies. Also, I was elected co-chair of the Arts and Heritage All Party Group. I have long been passionate about promoting our country’s marvellous heritage. My long-standing activities in support of a free and democratic Ukraine have significantly intensified following the unjustifiable and vicious Russian invasion in February too.

The next few months are likely to be difficult ones across the West, with inflation, Covid recovery, energy costs and ongoing war in Ukraine all playing their part. However, inflation should peak soon, and our vital ongoing support of the brave Ukrainian people should hasten an end to that war. 

All being well, I predict happier days ahead. In the meantime, I wish all my constituents a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2023.