ON behalf of everyone at Stroud District Council, I would like to wish you all the best for the coming year. We have much to celebrate about this friendly and beautiful part of the world we live in, and thank all of you for making it so.

I have to admit the year ahead holds much uncertainty. Brexit and climate change are two big issues that many people in our district feel passionately about. Stroud district voted to Remain, but as I write this the end result remains unclear and it is hard to know what to plan for.

Whatever happens in the next few months, the council shall do what it can to support local businesses. This year we shall also build on our work as a carbon neutral council, and work on the long term but urgent aim of achieving a carbon neutral district by 2030.

Local government finances also remain uncertain, so this year the council must find new ways to generate income so as to preserve valued services and ensure the most vulnerable members of our communities are protected from austerity. We must work even harder to use our limited resources most effectively to build up community wealth and resilience, for example by ensuring as much public sector money is spent as locally as possible. Affordable homes, health and well being, a thriving local economy, and protection of the environment, will remain our top priorities this year.

Despite the uncertain times we live in, I truly believe we can work together at a local level to make a positive difference. Whatever comes your way in 2019, be safe, and be happy.