A Christmas message from Councillor Jayne Buckland, Mayor of Enfield.

“For many of us Christmas is a time to reflect on the year that has passed and look ahead to the New Year.

“During the past eight months as mayor, I have had a fascinating time discovering so much about the wonderful people of this borough. Our children at school have been so willing to show me what they have been learning – and indeed it is a credit to our schools that they have achieved so much.

“Local community groups are doing some great work and as ever there is a superb army of volunteers out there supporting charities, giving time to run and coach at sports clubs or supporting the arts.

“This year has seen some splendid entertainments and events: The Autumn Show which attracted record crowds of some 15,000 people over two days, the Edmonton Festival which brought the community together parading through the streets in costume, the New River Festival with a focus on dance and exciting street performances at the Christmas lights events.

“I have been moved by the recent Remembrance Sunday memorial events and humbled to honour the men and women from two World Wars and returning soldiers from recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“In September The Mayor’s Charity Fun Run attracted dedicated contenders and fun runners for a great day at Forty Hall Park and since July poets have been sending in their poems in The Mayor’s Poetry competition – the closing date is 31st January so we look forward to receiving more entries.

“For me the year has been a mix of excitement, discovery and humility. The year ahead will be tough but I know that the people of Enfield are determined and will find ways to succeed in difficult times.

“So I wish everybody a wonderful Christmas and a healthy and happy New Year.”