The Mayor and Mayoress of Ashby have written a New Year's Message for readers of Ashby Nub News as we approach the end of an horrendous 2020 for everyone.

The town will end 2020 under Tier 4 coronavirus restrictions which mean a very different new year.

Here is a message from Cllr Graham Allman and Charmaigne, Mayor and Mayoress of Ashby de la Zouch.

"Well, here we are facing another New Year with 2020 slipping into the harsh reality and unpleasantness that is Covid-19.

"The challenges of the virus are still with us and undoubtedly will carry on well into 2021.

"But Brexit is upon us which presents us with yet another set of challenges.

"Whether you were for it or against it, we need to embrace the new world with our European neighbours and friends working for a new and better life of co-operation to secure the economic success we all strive for along with sharing our science to beat the Coronavirus.

"In 2019, Charmaigne and myself went to Pithiviers, our French twinning Town, representing Ashby Town Council and were formally greeted by their Town Mayor, Monsieur Philippe Nolland (see photo). We were greeted as friends and returned the compliment within my address and since have been regularly in touch. This will not change.

"We wish you all a safe passage into 2021 and know that all within this amazing Medieval quintessential English Market town will be doing whatever the challenges throw at us with the usual gusto of Ashbieans.

"'Proud to serve' the community of Ashby and surrounding villages."