I hope that everyone who celebrated Christmas enjoyed an inspiring experience; and those who do not celebrate this date also appreciated the times they shared with family and friends.

In this ‘lull’ before the New Year, we reflect upon the ‘new beginning’ each year offers. I appreciate that if you stand on one-side of the political spectrum you will wish to highlight ‘austerity’; whilst those on the opposite side will seek to highlight the fact the last Labour Government borrowed £1 in every £4 it spent.

My sincere hope is that during 2016, the economic revival created by the UK Conservative Government reaches into every ones lives so that we all share in the positive economic and social benefits.

Those who are going to celebrate the coming of the new year “to the full”; I ask them to think about the measures that were in place on “black Friday” to reduce the pressures upon our A&E departments, arising from those who consumed too much alcohol.

I appreciate that the majority of people, who will participate in New Year celebrations, will be sensible and enjoy themselves without spoiling the night for other people anticipating a good night out.

I suggest that everyone should consider my 3 R’s guidance.

1. RESPECT: for other people, their property and themselves. People must understand that they have the primary responsibility for their behaviour; they must respect other people, their property and themselves, and that they will be fully accountable for their actions.

2. REFUSE: to serve or to buy: Licensee’s, their staff and the friends of any one abusing alcohol, must accept the responsibilities of their actions in continuing to serve, or to buy drinks to anyone who appears to be “a little worse for wear, or under age”.

3. REVIEW: Licenses to sell alcohol and the freedom to buy alcohol. Licensee’s whose premises are regular ‘hot spots’ for alcohol related violence, anti-social behaviour and vandalism, should be subjected to immediate temporary closure until agreeing measures to reduce these incidents.

Each New Year offers a chance for resolutions and new opportunities. I appreciate that for many who suffer from illness, who are restricted in the abilities, who seek employment or find themselves alone – their challenges will continue. If everyone, at all levels of our community, can look around them and think who they can do something to improve the quality of their lives and that of their neighbours than we are taking the first steps to grasping those new opportunities.