As temperatures begin to fall, evenings get darker and the end of the year draws closer, many of us look forward to coming together with our loved ones to celebrate Christmas. It is that special time of year when we can take an opportunity to enjoy a break from routine to spend time with our friends and family to enjoy all that the festive season has to offer.
Food often forms the centre piece of social events like Christmas – for many of us the meals we prepare and share during this time are special and a key part of celebrations. As a rural constituency, positioned in heart of East Anglia, we have history in growing much of the food that ends up on peoples’ plates at Christmas and all year round.
This winter has been challenging for farmers and I will be sparing a thought for our poultry farmers who have observed devastating outbreaks of avian flu at a time of year they rely on most. Our farmers work tirelessly in all conditions to make sure we have a reliable food supply and many feel powerless when disease strikes their animals and it takes a toll not only on the balance sheet but them as well. So more than ever my thanks go to those farmers and businesses who have generously donated produce for community Christmas meals.
Christmas can be a difficult time for many and this year, faced with rising food and energy prices due in part to the impact of the Covid pandemic and the war in Ukraine, some will find Christmas more difficult than usual and may rely upon the charity of others where they have not done so before.
Throughout the year, I have met with so many community champions and have seen the very best our communities have to offer, and this is particularly apparent at Christmas. Last year, helping cook Christmas lunches with other volunteers, I saw close up that kindness in action. It is heartening to see the generosity and community spirit of those who help others with the challenges life bring, especially those groups who make Christmas day special for others with a meal and company.
No matter how small the gesture, we can all do our bit to help others and give back to our communities when enjoying Christmas this year. If like me, you’ve got most of your Christmas shopping ahead of you, I would encourage shopping locally to source produce and purchase presents from independent shops, markets and charity shops. By supporting our local businesses, we can all make a difference and keep our communities and highstreets bright. But mostly our loved ones, especially our children like to be with us - so how about the present being a walk in the countryside or on the coast with a flask of hot chocolate and a bit of a winter picnic. Fun without the cost will be at the centre of many plans this year, I am sure.
Written for the Bury Flyer
