AS we approach the end of 2018 and we start to get into the Christmas spirit, I think we should all look back on the year that has marked a very special time in our nation’s history.

All across the land, there have been events to mark the 100th Anniversary of the Armistice that marked the end the 1914-1918 World War; a war that saw the loss of so many lives for tiny pieces of soil, a war that devastated families on both sides of the conflict and a war that saw man fight against fellow man in conditions that are almost beyond comprehension today.

And in the town and villages across Mid Devon, the event has been marked by so many displays of poppies - our symbol of that war.

One thing in particular that was so touching to me, was the “there, but not there” clear cut outs representing the men who did not return.

There were a number of them in the Church of my own parish in Lapford and when I looked around the poppy displays in the Church, I thought I had picked out all the cut outs.

As I left however, there was one I noticed I hadn’t seen; right in front of me, the sunlight through the window just picked it out, one step to the right and it was gone, one step back and you saw it again… so memorable.

And so we look forward to Christmas in whatever way you celebrate it; to me it’s the singing of Carols that makes it so special and of course getting together with family and friends.

But please, in the midst of all the excitement, spare a thought for those who keep us safe over the Christmas period; our Police, Ambulance, Fire crews, Nurses, Doctors, all the volunteers who give their time freely to help others. May they also have time to enjoy their Christmas.

I wish you all have a peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year.

Peter Heal

Chairman MDDC.