I have had a super family Christmas and I am very grateful that people have been so considerate during this time.

I attended a retirement party for Dr Martin Lewis, the well-loved consultant haematologist and joined in the tributes to someone who contributed very significantly to the development and success of the hospital as we knew it.

It is sad that his experience and dedicated, holistic care is no longer available to his patients at all times although I understand he will continue some work on a part time basis.

At the peak of the Christmas rush I visited the staff at the Royal Mail Delivery Office to open their new building formally and to see them coping with the enormous extra work that we all give them at this time of year.

I was impressed by the space, the sorting facilities and the sheer size of their task. They made time to listen to me as I unveiled the commemorative plaque and thanked them for the service they provide for all of us.

I had to admit that I am one of the many who do not struggle to add postcodes to every Christmas card I send.

On Christmas Day I was welcomed warmly at the hospital on Cookley Ward, the GP ward, the minor injuries unit and D Block.

These remaining parts of our hospital are working well within their limitations and staff are pleased to be here where they are able to provide the standard of care which is natural to them and to which we are all accustomed.

Now we face the New Year! What will it bring?

The horror of September 11th 2001 could not have been forecast nor could the foot and mouth disease epidemic.

We can only hope and pray for a year without such disasters. Thank goodness most of us are optimists most of the time.

We will see the incinerator battle go to its next stage, the Bewdley flood defence installation commence, the battle for fair funding for the county educational services continue, further advances in the Kidderminster town centre developments and resolution of the hopes for a cinema.

I hope we will have a visit from the Prince of Wales Trust specifically to look at the needs of local young people.

We will watch with interest advances in communication that will help local police, the impact made by the new Acute Hospital Trust Chairman and the effects of the increased power and responsibility given to our Primary Care Trust.

I hope we can all help to make 2002 a year to remember because of success and happiness.