It may seem far too early to be talking about Christmas. The trees are only just starting to turn and I have my fingers crossed that we still have a lot of good weather ahead of us, but I know that many people are already looking towards the festive period and are concerned about what it will look like this year.
I love Christmas. I love the time we get to spend with our family and friends. I love carols in the church and mince pies. It is one of my favourite times of the year and I know for many of my constituents it is too.
The national newspapers say this year’s Christmas could be under threat, with the new guidelines and the rule of six and I know that many of my constituents are already concerned how they will have to adapt their usual Christmas celebrations in line with these rules. I understand these concerns, but we still have three months to change the tide. If we all follow the new rules, continue to wash our hands, wear facemasks when it is appropriate and keep our distance from one another, we have every chance of being in a better position to enjoy Christmas with our extended family and friends.
There is no denying that the run up to Christmas this year will be different. Many of the Christmas markets across the Country have been cancelled and we can’t have all the wonderful social gathering and parties in the run up to Christmas that we usually would. But to me, Christmas is so much meaningful than these social gatherings, albeit I love a Christmas party, but the true spirit of Christmas, of hope and joy is already alive and well in the Derbyshire Dales. During this difficult time, I have continued to be in awe every day, hearing of selfless acts, volunteers helping neighbours and front line workers battling to keep us safe. During this pandemic we have seen the absolute best of humanity and I have no doubt that my constituents will continue this attitude in the face of adversity even if Christmas looks different this year.
We must all play our part in the run up to Christmas to continue to lower the rate of infection and stop the spread of coronavirus and I plead with you to follow the rules. Together we can continue the fight and be on track for a wonderful and merry Christmas.
