On behalf of the members and officers of Erewash Borough Council, I would like to offer my sincere greetings to all residents and wish you all the very best at this special time of year.

It is a great privilege to serve as Mayor and I am very proud and honoured to have been chosen for this civic role. Over the last seven months I have met hundreds of wonderful people who visit, work or live in Erewash – and I look forward to meeting many more over the coming months until the end of my Civic Year in May 2017.

There is so much to be proud of in our borough and I have been immensely impressed by the wealth of talent within Erewash – talent that is demonstrated in every walk of life from those involved in the theatre, music and arts organisations through to those people who are involved in caring and supporting the less fortunate in our society.

I have seen at first hand the service given to the community by the armies of volunteers who work selflessly all year round to help others. These are wonderful people involved in community groups and charities ranging from the League of Friends of Ilkeston Hospital and the local Royal British Legion branches through to the Rotary and Lions Clubs, Local History Groups, Cadet Force Units and those involved in Guiding and Scouting movements.

There are also the groups within every church in the borough which do so much good in their local communities. Then there are our arts and environmental groups, those who support people with disabilities and all who work in or for our schools.

There are too many groups and people to mention by name, but I know you are out there working daily to support and help people in the borough or raising money for charities. It is this collective contribution that makes Erewash such a wonderful community and my heartfelt admiration goes out to you all.

We know, of course, that some people will not be with their loved ones this Christmas and to them we send our special good wishes. We particularly think of those serving in the armed forces across the world and their families here at home, especially those who serve with our local Regiment, the Mercians. We take time to think of those who have given their lives in the service of their country and, of course, everyone who is without a loved one through bereavement.

Special thanks are due to all those people who will be working over the Christmas period in the emergency services, hospitals, power stations and all other essential services. Your invaluable efforts are much appreciated.

I would like to invite you to join us at the Christmas Carol Service which is being held on the Ilkeston Market Place on Christmas Eve from 7pm. It will be a great time to celebrate this time of year and share the spirit of togetherness that this time of year brings.

I will end by wishing you all a Christmas that is safe, warm and comfortable. Please take care if you are travelling and I hope you enjoy spending time with family and friends. Season’s greetings and a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year to you all.

Councillor Abey Stevenson
Mayor of Erewash 2016-2017