THIS has not been an easy year, either for our country or for Malvern district.

All of us know, from our own experience, that money is tight – nationally and locally – and your councillors continue to do all they can to stop politicians hitting the poorest in our district in their already small pockets.

Locally we are doing everything we can to keep control of our planning from the clutches of governmentcontrolled inspectors and to resist the pressure that undoubtedly exists to force us to abandon weekly waste collection.

As chairman of the Hanley and District Royal British Legion I would ask you, this Christmas, to remember our Forces, both home and abroad, and particularly the families of those who have given their lives this past year in the defence of freedom.

Could I extend my thoughts to our emergency services and all care workers etc, who have to work this holiday.

I want to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a joyous and, above all, peaceful Christmas together with my earnest wishes for a happy and somewhat more prosperous New Year.

COUNCILLOR MIKE SOLEY Malvern