As we approach the end of the year,Britainis still in recession but we have great hopes of emerging from this in 2010. Perhaps our economy will have shrunk by almost five percent during 2009. Whatever the percentage, it has felt painful and we have all seen some of the consequences.
Although climate change is about seeing more extremes of weather, it is perhaps reassuring that we are still able to get some snow in the south east. I can recall the white blanket being much more common than it is today. We have had many years without any snow at all and with relatively mild Decembers. All of this recent experience means that when the snow does come, we are inevitably tested more than those countries used to a white Christmas.
Last Sunday, in our wintry landscape, I was pleased to attend the Civic Carol Service at St. Margaret’s Church, Ifield. It was a very pleasant setting and a well-attended service. Singing voices were in full swing and it was a really nice experience as we approached Christmas.
During the holiday break, it is worth remembering that many people will still be working and particularly those in our armed forces on duty around the world. It has been a year of significant casualties for our armed services. This is a time to remember and be grateful for the contribution that they make to our country.
A year ago, I wrote about how we inCrawleywere used to change. GatwickAirportwas being put on the market and it is pleasing that a new owner has been found. This is an expression of confidence in our economic future. We also need to remember that whileCrawleycan rapidly feel the effects of a recession, we typically are quick to benefit from the recovery. I hope that this historic trend will be repeated in 2010.
If the last few days are anything to go by, Crawley has certainly seen a lot of last-minute shopping. There have been many people stocking up for the holiday and we see as much as ever the vast panoply of different food associated with the festive period. Whatever our national economic circumstances, food production and consumption remain something of a triumph of planning and execution. It is particularly apparent that the totally essential mince pie is never knowingly under produced.
As we enter the festive break, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas.
Councillor Bob Lanzer, Leader of Crawley Borough Council
23rd December 2009