It has been another busy and challenging year for the council however the reward of serving our communities is always worth it. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all council staff and those of our public service partners for their work this year and I hope as many of you as possible manage to get some rest over the Christmas period. I hope that when you reflect on the year you will all allow yourselves to feel proud for the services you deliver and what you and your colleagues achieve every day.
My gratitude extends to our wonderful third sector partners, their staff and dedicated volunteers. Also, our heartfelt thanks to our emergency services and those who defend us by land sea and air to keep us safe.
Please remember that no matter how insignificant it might be to you, one little act of kindness this Christmas can make an immeasurable difference to someone. So, take a moment to reach out to an old friend or to check in on your neighbour who is on their own. You never know just how meaningful it could be.
I hope you all have a very merry and peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year to one and all.
Lawrence Fitzpatrick
Leader of West Lothian Council
