There are several stories of inspiration in this week’s Hexham Courant – a week in which we celebrate the story of Christmas.

The season of goodwill is a time for many to enjoy themselves, splash out on gifts for each other and eat a hearty meal or two.

But it is also a time when the spotlight shines on those who have less to enjoy in life – the homeless and the poor.

The generosity of local people of all ages in supporting the food bank will mean fewer people will go hungry over the next few weeks.

This is the spirit of Christmas in action.

But the very existence of food banks is a shameful stain on our modern society.

When Charles Dickens wrote A Christmas Carol, would he have thought that more than 170 years later, people in our country would still be living on the streets and struggling to find enough food to feed their families?

As we move into a new year, let us hope that the spirit of Christmas imbues the powers that be with a more caring approach to ensure more is done to help those in need.