Christmas is a time for family. That may be a cliche, but it is also very true.

For those of us lucky enough to celebrate Christmas with loved ones, it’s a time of year we cherish and give thanks for the love and support of those closest to us.

Family is clearly vital for Louise Morecombe, who lost her partner Chris to cancer six years ago and who herself struggles with bipolar disorder.

As she herself says, her four children are her rocks and this is why she nominated them to be considered for the Adver’s Christmas Wish. When we read Louise’s story, we were only too happy to oblige and promptly got in touch with “Santa” to give them a surprise they will hopefully never forget.

The youngsters received special Christmas hampers and shopping vouchers, thanks to the generosity of home builders Persimmon.

Since we launched the Christmas Wish three years ago, we have been overwhelmed by the kindness and concern shown by the people who nominate those who deserve a treat of some sort, and those who donate time, gifts or money because they have been touched by the stories.

When we launch Christmas Wish every year, we are flooded with nominations and to say we all get a bit emotional in the office when we read them is an understatement.

Christmas Wish has been a success story... because of you. Because, like Louise, you care about people who care. Because, like Persimmon, you want to help and provide whatever it takes to make a wish come true.

We at the Adver are going to make a final wish for 2014 – for you to have a merry Christmas and a happy new year.