A very Merry Christmas to all Gazette readers!

2017 has certainly been a year to remember politically. It was a delight during the General Election for me to spend seven weeks rediscovering yet again how special and beautiful Herefordshire is. To be returned once more as your MP was a huge honour, and it remains a privilege that I feel every day in Westminster.  

I am pleased to report some excellent progress since then: £15 million in further government support for our new county university, £5 million in new funding for local roads, and just last week a further grant in the fight against potholes. There is always more to do, but 

2017 was also a year to celebrate local heroes, ranging from those winning national honours (congratulations to Charles Gething Lewis) to the great fundraising efforts that delivered the Ross Action Bus. Special mention must also go to this newspaper, its staff and owner. The Gazette celebrated its 150th birthday this year.  Here’s to the next 150 years!

As we come together for Christmas this year, let us all remember those in the public services in and around Ross, who are working over the festive period--and the enormous contribution made by our local servicemen and women overseas.

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to one and all, and to friends and family.