Christmas is fast approaching and I want to take the opportunity to highlight some of the brilliant work going on across Barnsley during the festive season.
This time of year brings out the best in our community and reminds us of why we are so proud to live where we do.
I know many local charities, for example, are working around the clock to help local people enjoy the holidays.
Barnsley Foodbank, who I visited recently, have been working hard to prepare for what they expect to be an incredibly busy winter period, enabling families to cook a warm meal.
Amongst others, I know Age UK Barnsley are offering a whole host of festive activities for older people, whilst volunteers are working as usual to run toy donation points and ensure every child receives a present.
To all those who are dedicating their time to help others this Christmas, thank you.
Local businesses and organisers across the area have also been working hard over the last few months to ensure there are lots of festive events on offer for local people to get involved in.
It has been great to pop into some of these events, including Flavours of Christmas in Worsbrough, Barnsley Youth Choir’s Christmas concert, and Christmas at the Town Hall.
I want to thank everyone who has put their time and effort into these events that light up our local area and make the time of year feel special.
Over the last couple of weeks, I have also had the pleasure of visiting the ten primary schools in Barnsley South who took part in my annual Christmas card competition, awarding prizes to all the winners. In each of these schools, I saw first-hand how hard all the teachers, staff and teaching assistants are working to ensure our children have the best start in life.
Though schools break up and lots of workplaces wind down to give people a well-deserved break, I know that many local people will continue to work extremely hard across the festive period – from doctors and emergency workers to shopkeepers and bar staff.
I am grateful for those who sacrifice rest time with their families and friends, so that others can enjoy Christmas together, and know help is available if it is needed.
It is with people like this in mind that I have been proud to run my ‘Small Business Competition’ again this month, recognising the contribution of local organisations to our local community. If you would like to nominate someone for this award, please do get in touch.
I hope that everyone gets the chance to rest and recover before the New Year, even those who will be working hard.
If you aren’t set to spend the day with loved ones, Costa, on Queen Street, will open from 10am to 1pm if you would like some company. If you are struggling on the day, you can also contact Samaritans for free, day or night, on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.
Merry Christmas to everyone across the community, I wish you all the very best.
