AS we head into the festive season, it is important to reflect on the year which has passed but also look to the year ahead.

And after the most testing of years, I hope we can do more of the latter and begin to move towards a more normal 2021, thanks to the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Closing down the country through national lockdowns is something no-one could have ever predicted would happen this time last year and it is certainly something no Government ever wants to impose; however, for us to enjoy the upcoming festivities, it was crucial. Here in Somerset, since March we have had a relatively low level of cases, thanks to both our population density and willingness to take the restrictions seriously.

This is a huge credit to our community, particularly as it is no secret that in Somerset our demographic is one of the most at risk and so to be able to protect them and, in turn, our NHS is something to be truly thankful for.

While this year has not been what we hoped for and has stopped us doing so many things, it has once again been a true honour to represent this wonderful constituency in Westminster.

I have missed having the opportunity to go out and meet people in the community as that is one of the most enjoyable parts of being a Member of Parliament and while it has been necessary to adapt and move meetings to Zoom, I will welcome a return to face-to-face encounters once again.

This may not be the most traditional Christmas for many of us but I do hope you all have an enjoyable time with loved ones.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

James Heappey

MP for Wells