Seasons Greetings from North Ayrshire Provost, Councillor Pat McPhee
"As Provost, I have had the great pleasure of meeting many inspiring people and representing North Ayrshire at a number of official engagements throughout 2011.
"This was my first full year as Provost of North Ayrshire and it has been a busy but fulfilling twelve months.
"The year started with some of the worst weather we've experienced in decades and while the snow and ice was challenging for us all, I was humbled by the community spirit in North Ayrshire.
"Despite the severe winter weather in January, I know there were so many North Ayrshire citizens who were willing to help others less able than themselves.
"The weather improved as we moved towards Spring, but it was a pleasantly chilly start to May with the official opening of our £4 million new ice rink at Auchenharvie Leisure Centre when I welcomed Minister for Sport and Commonwealth Games, Shona Robison MSP, to North Ayrshire.
"There have been many excellent sporting and cultural events throughout the year, including Camp 2011 – a major basketball training camp held at Inverclyde – and the Tall Ships, which saw some of the most beautiful vessels stopping off along North Ayrshire's coast.
"I hope the new facilities and the sporting and cultural events which have taken place in North Ayrshire this year have inspired local people to take up a new sport or activity.
"Throughout the year, I have had the chance to meet so many wonderful people. I've welcomed visitors from all over the world from places like France, Italy and Norway as well as the Moderator for the Church of Scotland David Arnott.
"I have also had the pleasure of meeting inspirational people who live right here on our doorstep - those who are dedicated to strengthening our communities and promoting North Ayrshire as the wonderful place it is.
"In June, we recognised North Ayrshire's greatest asset – its people – as part of the inaugural Provost's Civic Pride Awards and Charity Dinner and will do the same again in 2012.
"I cannot ignore the challenges we've faced in 2011 – North Ayrshire Council has had to make some tough decisions this year. However, we are committed to providing essential services for the most vulnerable members of our communities.
"The Council also continues to work hard to help create employment and training opportunities for local people and invest millions of pounds economic regeneration.
"The snow at the beginning of the year brought about a wonderful sense of community spirit where neighbours helped one another. It is this sense of community and belonging that makes me so proud to be a citizen of North Ayrshire.
"On behalf of Council, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. I hope you stay warm, safe and healthy over the festive period."