This column was written before the Tier 4 rules, and amended Christmas rules, were announced on Saturday

Christmas is a time for giving and this year that is something that we have seen in spades in Watford. So many of you have been generous with time, donations and support for others in our community – thank you for everything you have contributed to Watford!

To keep up the momentum, we have launched the Laps to Lapland fundraising initiative. We are asking the people to collectively cycle 6,307km, the distance of a return journey from Watford to Lapland, and make a donation to the Watford Helps Covid-19 Appeal. There are plenty of ways you can get involved, by renting a Beryl Bike, using your own bike, or even on an exercise bike in one of our gyms. If every Watford resident donated just £1 it would make a huge difference to the support we can provide to our local charities that have done so much for the community this year. More information on how to get involved or make a donation is available at www.watfordcovidappeal.org/laps-to-lapland.

Watford Observer: The Laps to Lapland challenge is raising money for the Watford Helps Covid-19 AppealThe Laps to Lapland challenge is raising money for the Watford Helps Covid-19 Appeal

At the start of 2020 I suspect that none of us would have predicted the year ahead. Christmas this year will be very different for many of us too. It is so important that we all behave responsibly over the festive period to keep ourselves and those we love safe. Whether you are creating a Christmas bubble or celebrating the holidays with your household, please be responsible and try to limit face-to-face social interactions as much as possible.

The case numbers in Watford have risen significantly in recent weeks and therefore we have now been placed into Tier 3. This means that some of the hardest hit parts of the community are once again having to close their doors to the public: cafes, restaurants and bars. Let’s all do everything we can so that the current restrictions can be lifted as soon as possible.

Thank you to every single person in the town who has played their part this year, helping to support those in need and keeping the town going in difficult circumstances. When we look back on 2020 I know that we will remember with sadness the lives we lost. I will also recall the amazing generosity and care of so many people, dedication of key workers and the determination of businesses of all sizes to adapt so that they could survive a very difficult year.

However you choose to celebrate, I hope that you have a peaceful Christmas and that together our town can enjoy a healthy, happy and prosperous 2021.

  • Peter Taylor is Elected Mayor of Watford