East Cambridgeshire District Council

Councillor Tony Parramint, Chairman of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: "Christmas is a great time of the year – offering us all the chance to catch up with loved ones, share gifts and enjoy the opportunity to spend time with our families. For me it is also a time to reflect on the past year – looking back on the things that have happened over the last 12 months.

"It is fair to say that as we review 2011 it has been a very busy year for the Council with elections, new councillors and new financial plans but this is not to over look the less glamorous work which officers and members do.

"For example, this year we have handled over 1,200 planning applications; organised 350 Mature & Active sessions, paid out £131,764 to 18 organisations in community grants, cut 1,125,000 square metres of grass in our parks; ran over 150 markets; developed and consulted on village visions and so much more. All these things make a real difference to people’s lives.

"As Chairman, I have the great honour in representing East Cambridgeshire at events throughout the region. It is at these occasions that I am reminded of the high esteem which many hold our fantastic district in. Sometimes I think we all forget how lucky we are to live in such a diverse place as East Cambridgeshire. For while there maybe disagreements between politicians, local groups and residents on certain issues – I believe all of us want the best for the place we are lucky to live and work in.

"It just leaves me to take this opportunity, on behalf of my fellow councillors and everyone at East Cambridgeshire District Council, to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."