Christmas seems to come around quicker each year.
Perhaps that is simply the inevitable consequence of having two young boys whose excitement in the run up certainly keeps Krystle and I on our toes.
For me that is the best part of the festive period. I can’t wait to see Alastair and James open their presents on Christmas morning and I’m sure that feeling will be shared by many families with young children across Moray.
However, I am acutely aware that this joyful experience is not the reality for everyone here in Moray.
Many find this time of year a lonely one and many are also continuing to struggle with the cost-of-living crisis and I will continue to do all I can to support them.
My thoughts are also with those caught up in conflicts around the globe including in Ukraine and in Israel and Gaza whose focus will be a million miles away from the festivities we are celebrating.
While many enjoy some much needed relaxation at Christmas, others go above and beyond to keep us safe so we can do so.
My thanks go to all our those working in our emergency services, for whom Christmas can be an extremely busy time as well as our Armed Forces at home and abroad who are sacrificing seeing their families so they can protect us and our allies.
From my family to yours I hope everyone across Moray has a peaceful, happy and very merry Christmas.