Christmas Message 2011

As we reach the end of another tough year dominated by economic and social problems where do we find hope and inspiration?

Last month I attended an event organised by Garfield and Walker primary schools to launch a book dedicated to the childrens' heroes. The schools are from very different parts of my constituency in terms of wealth and family backgrounds. However the event which was by led by the author Antony Lischak showed that the children are very similar in the way they are inspired.

Heroes as diverse as Superman and Martin Luther King were mentioned but mainly the heroes were those nearest - family, mothers, fathers, grandparents. Christmas is a good time to be with those family heroes.

Proceeds of the book will go to Help for Heroes, supporting our brave veterans who have been injured and remind us of Christmas being difficult for families missing loved ones.

No doubt we will have new heroes after the forthcoming Olympics. The hope is that the legacy will be felt in our area with young and old becoming more active as well as inspiring future champions.

For me this year I have met leaders, Presidents and the odd celebrity but some of the most inspirational people have been those who have overcome their addictions. They have come from having lives enslaved by drugs and alcohol damaging them and those around them to lives of responsible citizens that lead others out of addiction. I am resolved to continue to support recovery nationally and locally (visit www.egsn.co.uk for more details).

As we remember the birth of Jesus Christ and why he came to be the Light of the World we can be truly inspired and hopeful. Happy Christmas and best wishes for a peaceful New Year.

Please click on the image below to view my recent newsletter.

Best wishes

David Burrowes MP
Member of Parliament for Enfield Southgate