“CHRISTMAS is a time for showing our appreciation to family and friends for all the good things they have given to us throughout the year. It is a time to count our blessings and to exchange gifts and messages and it is a time when we should think of those less fortunate than ourselves, both in our own communities and further afield.

“I ask you to remember the good work done by our local and national charities to bring comfort and care to people who are the victims of both natural and manmade disasters. Please give generously to their appeals and in the spirit of Christmas, lend your support to these worthy causes.

“I would also ask you to remember the members of HM Forces who are being called upon to serve in some of the world’s most dangerous and demanding trouble spots. Particularly our friends of the Royal Tank Regiment who are spending their Christmas and New Year away from families and friends, serving on deployment in Estonia.

“This time of year is always difficult for our Police, Fire and Hospital services and I thank all who work in these very important areas of public care and protection.

“It has been suggested that the Christmas message has become diluted by the whirl of shopping, parties and presents. However, I would like to think that all our people, no matter what beliefs they hold, subscribe to the Christmas message of peace and goodwill to all. My personal thanks go to all the churches and church leaders for their help and support.

“On behalf of Pembroke Town Council, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous and peaceful New Year.”