We have been sent messages from council leaders in West Oxfordshire looking ahead to 2024 and reflecting on the 12 months just gone. Read their thoughts sent exclusively to us below. 

Andy Graham, leader of West Oxfordshire District Council: "Its been a challenging year for us all but I know that this time of year what ever your religion, background or circumstance you have all managed adversity by sharing and through your understanding of others.

"May this festive time of year bring us all peace, have a great time and thanks to all staff that look after health and well-being.

"See you in 2024."

Oxford Mail: Andy Graham Andy Graham (Image: WODC)Deputy leader of the council Duncan Enright: "Happy New Year to all Witney Gazette and Oxford Mail readers.

"May 2024 bring us hope and happiness.

"After all these years of austerity and cost of living crisis, over 13 years of hardship and decline, this year will bring us a chance to change - change our country, change our government and change our direction.

"There is no doubt that, together, we can rebuild our NHS, schools, roads and railways and public services, providing a foundation for economic growth.

Oxford Mail: Duncan Enright Duncan Enright (Image: WODC)"We have had enough of the doom and gloom of Conservative rule. It is time for something new, and in 2024 let's make change happen."

Green party councillor Rosie Pearson said: "However you are marking the passage from 2023 to 2024 - a wild party, a quiet family meal, or a walk in the countryside - it’s hard to avoid a few reflections. 

"On the face of it, 2023 could not have been much worse: more record temperatures, polarised politics, rising costs and the terrifying destruction of war. 

"Pause. Hush. Wait. 

Oxford Mail: Councillor Rosie Pearson Councillor Rosie Pearson (Image: WODC)"This is the moment in the year when we can rest, listen to our hearts and to the stories of those around us, and allow ourselves to hear the sound of hope.

"In 2024, let’s hope for good leadership in our efforts to slow down the climate and nature emergency; better conversations around how we can all play our part; and a deeper sense of connectedness to our fellow human beings and to others on the planet. 

"May stories of progress be amplified and spread their light, may a belief in human kindness abound, may we all learn to listen.

"May bells ring out for a happy and hopeful 2024." 

Michele Mead, Conservative group leader on West Oxfordshire District Council said: "We hope you have all had a fantastic Christmas. May the New Year bring you good health and happiness.

"Wishing you and yours peace and prosperity in the year ahead. Happy 2024."

Oxford Mail: Conservative group leader Michele Mead Conservative group leader Michele Mead (Image: WODC)