AS 2021 draws to a close, it’s as good a time as any to think about our hopes for the New Year.

Covid continued to test our communities this year and saw many people plunged into isolation over the festive period, separated from loved ones, battling the virus.

And while we cannot say 2022 will be coronavirus free, we can hope for a healthier and prosperous year for all.

Here at the Hexham Courant, we asked local dignitaries for their reflections on a year like no other but also their wishes for the New Year. Here’s what they said.

“Now, more than ever before, I am looking to our county council to pull together all its skills, expertise and commitment to our residents as we move into a New Year”, said Northumberland County Council leader Glen Sanderson.

“Thanks to our staff, we have tackled many very tough challenges over the last year.

“We are still clearing up the damage that Storm Arwen caused and, at the same time, keeping our residents safe through the latest increase in Covid rates in our region. I know our teams won’t let us down.

“I’ve called for the county council to review what happened during the storm and its aftermath, which will begin in January. I want everyone who was affected by the storm to have their say so we can make progress rather than placing blame.

“And Northumberland is changing! We still have the finest county to offer tourists, which in turn supports business across Northumberland, but we also see huge development beginning to come into reality in the south east and along our new Northumberland Line. And amongst our rural towns - a new whisky distillery and visitor centre in Wooler, a brand new theatre and culture offer for Berwick, work underway on great new schools, the new developments in Hexham, Alnwick and Morpeth and our commitment to our Climate Change Action Plan.

“Our budget this year will reflect more spending in key parts of our services to reflect our priorities of encouraging and supporting business and jobs, and at the same time, to look harder at how we can do our bit to right inequalities.

“So, challenges yes. But an absolute commitment to continue to work hard for every resident wherever they live. We have great teams across our services and I know we will do our residents proud.”

MP Guy Opperman said: “It has been a difficult year for communities across Northumberland, from the ongoing pandemic to the devastating effects of Storm Arwen. Huge thanks go to all the amazing emergency services and our brilliant local NHS, who have continued to serve people in Northumberland with the utmost professionalism and service.

“The Covid vaccination rollout earlier in the year, and the recent booster rollout, has been hugely successful. The UK leads the world with its booster rollout, with some 185,000 booster jabs being rolled out across Northumberland so far. Our local NHS has been amazing at rolling out the vaccine at such speed, whilst also persuading those who were previously unsure to get the jab, to get jabbed.

“My single most important message would be to get vaccinated. Covid has taken such a toll on our communities in so many ways, but the vaccine is our single most effective defence against the Omicron variant. It is the best way to protect our friends, family, and vulnerable members of the community.

“I hope you have had a very merry Christmas and wishing everyone across Northumberland a very happy and prosperous New Year.”

Prudhoe Mayor Bryan Futers added: “After the last two stressful years of Covid-19, I would like to thank the people of Prudhoe for their determination and spirit, coming together, supporting their neighbours and meeting the challenges of this invisible virus that strikes without warning.

“I wish that I had a crystal ball and could promise 2022 will see the end of Covid-19, what I do know, the people of Prudhoe, they will stand together, overcome adversity, supporting their friends and neighbours whatever the coming year brings.

“On behalf of myself and Prudhoe Town Council, I would like to wish all the residents of Prudhoe and Mickley all the best for 2022.”

Ponteland town mayor Christine Greenwell said: “2021 brought its trials and tribulations with Covid and Storm Arwen, but once again, the people in Northumberland and in the parish of Ponteland came together and supported, strangers, friends, neighbours and family.

“My wishes for you all in 2022 are peace, prosperity, good health, and lots of laughter. Let us all move forward, acknowledging the new normal, and hopefully, get back to our old normal way of life as soon as possible.

“Stay safe and well.”

“I am an optimist by nature and I am hopeful that 2022 will be a better year than the Covid years we have had”, said Hexham mayor Derek Kennedy.

“Hexham is the happiest town in Great Britain, we have an ambitious town council and enthusiastic councillors and we will positively drive the town forward. We are planning events including the return of the popular Bandstand Sessions, 800th celebration of the Market Place and will continue to work closely with our partners. We will also roll out our sustainability plans.

“I am very proud to be leading the new town council, one that represents and listens to all parts of the community, we are all committed to delivering for the people of Hexham.”