Cheryl Gillan, MP: New Year's message (From Bucks Free Press)

Cheryl Gillan, MP: New Year's message

12:50pm Tuesday 1st January 2013 in News

2013 seems to have arrived with us much more quickly than a New Year usually does, simply because 2012 appeared to pass so swiftly.

From Her Majesty the Queen’s glorious Diamond Jubilee celebrations, to the Olympic and Paralympic Games, there was continuing activity throughout the year.

Closing the year, there came the news of a baby for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, which has set an optimistic note for the next twelve months.

Most of us relish the start of a New Year, bringing new beginnings and enabling us to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives with our friends and families.

However, we must not forget that for some people there will be tough challenges: getting a job or sustaining one, making ends meet, coping with illness and disability, or facing the harsh realities which life sometimes brings to all of us.

As we start the year, let us all make that conscious decision to keep an eye on the welfare of our ‘neighbours’ – not only those who live nearby, but workmates, friends, or people who may form part of our lives as members of the wider communities which we all inhabit.

We should offer help where we can and when we can. Nor should we be afraid to take help from those who would offer it.

Jack and I wish you all a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

Rt Hon Cheryl Gillan, Member of Parliament for Chesham and Amersham.