As 2020 draws to a close there can be no better time to thank East Lothian communities for their collective, heroic efforts over this unprecedented and challenging year.

From public sector workers operating at the NHS frontline and in our classrooms - to grandparents who sacrificed seeing their families this Christmas - nobody’s life has remained untouched by the Covid pandemic.

Many local families have lost a loved one, and communities remain concerned about the ongoing pandemic and its economic consequences.

Through my work as a Councillor and local campaigner, I have been able to see first-hand the extraordinary efforts ordinary people have made.

Often, in their own private way, local residents and businesses have shown a selfless commitment to others, embracing a renewed sense of community spirit.

But there is no doubting it has been a very tough year for many.

We all hope and pray that 2021 will prove to be a better year.

And while the coming year will undoubtedly bring challenges, soon we will hopefully see brighter and better days on the horizon for towns and villages across East Lothian.

I would like to express my personal thanks and best regards - and wish a Happy New Year - to everyone across the county.

Stay safe.

Craig Hoy
Scottish Conservative and Unionist Candidate
East Lothian