Cllr Mumtaz Hussain, the Mayor Of Kirklees has delivered a message to the region as many celebrate Christmas differently this year.

The Mayor statement read:

I would never have thought, 18 months ago, that I would still be The Mayor of Kirklees and penning this message. At the start of 2020, we each had so many plans and little idea that the most defining moment of our lifetime was to take centre stage – The coronavirus pandemic.

The coronavirus pandemic made its presence felt across the borough, as businesses closed, events were cancelled, and children were being home schooled. We tried to get fitter with Joe Wicks, more creative with Grayson Perry and those less tech savvy, got to grips with video calling.

At a time of such uncertainty and concern, I witnessed some truly inspiring acts of kindness, of communities helping each other, neighbours supporting the vulnerable, supermarkets donating food parcels and local businesses offering to support the cause. I have never felt more proud to represent Kirklees.

I cannot thank our key workers enough for their resilience. Our amazing NHS workers, who through adversity and the most trying of times, have worked so hard to keep us safe.

We all feel a sense of sadness for those who have lost loved ones. Every sad loss is felt by everyone and our thoughts are with you all.

As we put this turbulent year behind us, I am optimistic about the future. We’re not out of the woods yet and we must remain vigilant, play our part and follow government guidelines, but with a vaccine being rolled out, we can start to look to the possibilities 2021 holds for us with optimism and hope.

Finally, I would like to ask you to consider donating to our Christmas charity, ‘Samaritans’, whose volunteers are there 24/7 to support those struggling with their mental health.

I wish you good health, happiness and a prosperous New Year.

Councillor Mumtaz Hussain and Mrs Noreen Hussain

The Mayor and Mayoress of Kirklees.

Mayor of Kirklees christmas message