In his first Christmas message as Provost of North Lanarkshire, Councillor Tom Curley wishes everyone across the area warm season's greetings for the festive period.

Provost Curley said, "This has been my first year as Provost after stepping up to the position from Depute Provost earlier this year.  It has been a very busy first year in my new role and it has been a real privilege to carry out a range of civic duties throughout North Lanarkshire and beyond.

"As well as meeting residents from across this area it has also given me great pleasure to extend a welcome to visitors from further a-field. There have been too many events to mention, however, I've selected a few of my highlights from the past year.

"The World Under 23s Rowing Championships were held in North Lanarkshire this year.  This international royal event, which took place at Strathclyde Park, attracted competitors from 50 countries across the globe and was hailed a success by both those competing in the event and those who attended.  It's great to play host to events like this one which firmly puts North Lanarkshire on the world stage, and I hope to see many more in the future, like the International Children's Games in 2011 - fingers crossed for a successful bid!

"I welcomed the Consul General of India, Ramesh Chander, to North Lanarkshire earlier this year.  This was to mark the 60th anniversary of Indian Independence and was a visit to further strengthen bonds of cooperation and friendship.  Other international visitors included representatives from the education service in Malawi, a delegation from Schweinfurt, Germany stopped off in North Lanarkshire and 12 Italians on a 'tandem of peace visit' to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Human Rights Legislation, enjoyed a tour of the area.

"Closer to home I officiated at this year's Golden Wedding event which was held at Motherwell Concert Hall. Around 150 married couples from across Lanarkshire celebrated their 50th wedding anniversaries in one of the biggest events held this year.  The event was a tremendous success and it's great to see the number of couples attending each year increase.

"Cumbernauld also enjoyed its own celebrations this year as the town marked its 50th anniversary.  A variety of organised events took place including the official opening of the new Antonine Centre by HRH The Princess Royal and a Cumbernauld 10K race.

"And just this month a civic reception took place marking the 30th anniversary for the service of our community councils.  Community councils play a key role in strengthening the areas we live in and it was great to meet so many people who share the same passion for local issues.

"North Lanarkshire is a great place to live and work and the people who live here make it a place we should all be proud of. I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who contribute to our communities both through their work and in a voluntary capacity.  To each and every one of North Lanarkshire's residents have a happy and peaceful time this Christmas."