In the days leading up to and including the Christmas and New Year holidays, Maldon Nub News will bring you messages from some key local figures. Some of these will be from politicians and so the views expressed are entirely their own.

Some will be long and others brief, but the thing they will have in common is their message to the people of Maldon as this most difficult of years draws to a close.

The following is a seasonal message from Independent Councillor Wendy Stamp, Leader of Maldon District Council

"I would like to thank all of our partner organisations, volunteers, fellow councillors at district, town and parish councils and particularly the staff of the district council for their commitment and dedication during what has been a challenging year.

"This year, Covid-19 has affected us all and continues to do so, but the news of the roll-out of the vaccine is something that gives hope.

"I was pleased to be able to work with our NHS health partners to provide facilities at our council cffices as a vaccination centre, and I have been delighted at how the NHS and the volunteers from the Maldon and District CVS (Community Volunteer Service) have risen to the challenge to make this happen.

"Whilst this has been a dreadful year, what has never ceased to amaze me is the support and resilience that the whole community has shown in supporting each other and our amazing NHS.

"I appreciate that it continues to be a very difficult time for many residents and businesses, but I can only hope that as we move into 2021 things will gradually show signs of improvement.

"As Leader of the district council and with my fellow elected representatives we will continue to work together in order to provide the high quality and value for money services to residents of the district."

"I send each and every one of you my warmest seasonal greetings for a healthy, safe, and peaceful New Year."