All of us will look back on 2020 and be glad to welcome 2021 as we open a new chapter.
Far too many people have lost loved ones because of COVID-19 and many, during the times of lockdowns, have experienced situations they have never before encountered.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made the past nine months a time like no other for generations.
However with the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccinations underway, and with the first cohort of the most vulnerable in our community having already been called for their first vaccination - and set to receive their second in the coming days - surely better times lie ahead.
In the words of Captain Sir Tom Moore - who has been an inspiration to us all during the dark days - "tomorrow will be a good day".
And I am sure he is correct.
In the darkest hours of the COVID-19 crisis many people have shone bright in our communities - our NHS workers, the numerous volunteers who have helped others, 'essential' shop staff who have served us daily, and staff at our schools who have continued to teach the youngest people in Epping Forest and the children of our keyworkers.
Together these people, and many others, have shown what is good about Epping Forest.
Out of darkness comes light.
Together we must fight this virus.
Together we will beat it.
And together we can look forward to 2021 with renewed hope.
