The Mayor of Kidderminster writes for the Standard.
THE CHRISTMAS lights switch-on in Kidderminster and other towns this November heralded the start of the Christmas season.
People are starting to put up their home decorations – inside and outside – and shops put on display their ranges of Christmas gifts and festive food and drink.
It is great fun for me personally, as Mayor, to be a part of these events and to see the streets filled with happy faces.
Councils are promoting travel to support shopping and socialising in December – bus fares within Worcestershire are just £1 and free parking between 3pm and 6pm in WFDC car parks (not Weavers Wharf).
Christmas is not all about consumption and spending, though. It is also a time of goodwill to all people and helping those less well off than ourselves.
In Kidderminster we have a variety of charities and community organisations who support the vulnerable and those in need.
Although they are needed all-year-round, the need becomes more acute in the colder and lonelier months, when clothing and heating become more important.
Among our local charities and support organisations are foodbanks, HELP, Simply Limitless, Nightstop, Homestart, Age UK, Citizens Advice Bureau, the Hospital League of Friends, our churches and our care homes – consider helping them out by volunteering your time or donating (apologies to any I have missed).
Wishing you all a festive season that is full of peace, joy and happiness.
