This will be my last column in the Advertiser this year as the next two Thursdays are Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Christmas is primarily a Christian religious festival, although it is also a general holiday for all to enjoy.

I know our many churches, chapels and other places of worship are preparing for this, one of the busiest times in the year. I am sure many a carol will be sung with tuneful voices.

Alongside the religious celebrations, there are still ample shopping days to go and I would encourage you to do your Christmas shopping in Swindon.

As well as the town centre we have specialist shops in Old Town, local shops in Highworth, Gorse Hill and elsewhere, along with other shopping centres.

For all its efficiency, online shopping does not provide a warm smile and personal service that only a person can give at your local store.

Councillor Foley and I received a brief insight into the sheer volume of work at this time of year when, on behalf of the council, we visited the Royal Mail sorting depot at Dorcan.

The facility was a frenetic hive of activity. Even with social media and the virtues of the internet there is still something tactile and special about receiving a Christmas card.

I appreciate all the hard work of the people working for the postal service, the delivery companies and the other suppliers without whom most of us would not enjoy the festivities.

Alongside all the enjoyable parts of Christmas, we should not forget that giving is at the heart of the British Christmas tradition.

We need to look at our own streets and neighbourhoods and support those who might be alone at this time of year.

Not everyone is able to be with friends and family and it can leave some people very isolated.

Now is a great time to talk to your neighbours and at least spread a little Christmas cheer.

A smile and a mince pie can go a long way to build bridges.

For those who wish to do more, there are many charities and voluntary groups that would welcome your assistance. Small gestures of human kindness really do go a long way and, who knows, you might be encouraged to volunteer more often!

Whatever your circumstances, I would like to take this opportunity to wish, in advance, everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous New Year.