With hushed tones we walk reverently into December. Is it possible that in three short weeks it will be Christmas eve? Where on earth has this year gone?

For instance, I recall the morning when I witnessed the first flurry of virgin snow carpeting our town centre, completely magical, given the time, the darkness and without a single soul to spoil the image that’s now seared into my memory.

Along with this, is the appreciation and gratitude that I have for the volunteers that facilitated the vaccine roll out in Andover.

One of those was businesswoman Jane Bernsten of Andover Buffets, who gifted me a weeks’ worth of top of the range culinary delights, whilst I was having my kitchen refitted by Aster.

With family in the building trade themselves, it was good to follow John McGee’s progress as he deftly worked his way around.

Admiring his dedication and attention to detail I felt he was a great ambassador for Aster.

However the workmen in the other photos, worked to schedule through some pretty atrocious weather to deliver on time our river side park.

Timing is important.

Seasons change from spring to summer, autumn, and now were at the onset of winter again.

This year our sovereign queen lost her beloved lifelong consort and devoted husband, and the world lost a gentleman the like of which we will never see again.

I dare say as you read this column, you or your family and friends have been touched with the grief, that follows the passing of a loved one dear to you too.

Yet our town is known for its comradeship and caring. Witness how many rallied around during Covid to help those that were housebound or in nursing homes.

Look also at how the economy in Andover, with all its manner of shops and businesses, are now thankfully emerging from.

The restrictions imposed on their livelihoods whilst necessary were in some cases quite hard on the independents, but there is little so bad that a spot of retail therapy cannot help to cure.

Along with the seasons passing is the natural progressions of our youngsters as they grow and leave the sanctuary of Andover for pastures new.

In the summer we bade our farewells to James Ashworth but then, in walked the equally respected Catriona Aitken, who along with Ryan Evans now look after and promote our town.