FOR me, the low and high point of the year came during my visit to Ukraine.
The low was experiencing a country at war and the appalling consequences it was having on millions of innocent people.
In contrast, the high was the determination, courage and dignity of all those I met, young and old, who refuse to surrender to invasion and intimidation.
The aftershocks for the rest of the world have been immense, with energy shortages, price hikes, grain famine and a new refugee crisis.
At home, our greatest sadness was the death of our beloved Queen.
Tens of thousands waited for hours to walk past her coffin in Westminster Hall, while millions watched the funeral on TV or stood respectfully on the route of the procession.
Her duty, selflessness and Christian devotion for more than 70 years are an example to us all.
Despite all the bad news at the moment, I believe the darkest hour comes before the dawn and next year will be better.
That said, 2022 hasn’t been all bad.
Covid has not been eradicated, but we are free of all those ghastly restrictions placed on us.
We can now see our families and friends this Christmas and the relief around the country is palpable.
Here in South Dorset, there are many extraordinary voluntary organisations which make us proud.
RNLI crews at Swanage and Weymouth and volunteers with Portland’s Island Community Action are but just two to mention.
There are countless others.
We remain indebted to the emergency services, our Armed Forces and the NHS.
I also thank our councillors, of all political colours, and the civil servants who back them up.
Can I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.