CHRISTMAS won’t be the same this year, but most people will be able to engage in the usual festivities within their own households.

For Doreen Soulsby, Christmas hasn’t been the same for 23 years, and it will never be the same again.

It was a time she once treasured and enjoyed spending with her family.

Since the brutal murder of Doreen’s daughter, Joanne, on Christmas Day 1997, the festive period, and its elongated build-up, has been too much to bear.

To many, the idea of shutting out Christmas is a baffling one, but for Doreen, it is an essential way of getting by.

As we sit down to Christmas dinners in homes across the district, spare a thought for Doreen and her family, and indeed others who are stricken by grief at this most sensitive time of year.

It is absolutely imperative that the memory of Joanne Tulip, a bright, active young woman in the prime of her life before it was so ruthlessly cut short, lives on.

A talented hairdresser, she lived a full and active life, travelling to the Middle East before returning to her native North-East.

Her mum described Joanne as a happy person, who loved to spend time with her friends.

And Joanne was also courageous. An ME sufferer, she was due to return to work after a taking time out on health grounds.

Joanne was well liked and respected in the Tyne Valley and beyond, and she will always be fondly remembered.

We must commend the courage of her mother and other family members in fighting for justice over a long period of time. We also hope that they find peace at this most challenging time of year, and beyond.

One thing for sure is that the Tyne Valley, and its well-meaning people, will be thinking of them, and Joanne, this Christmas.