FOR me, Christmas is truly a time to hold close those dear to me.

It is a time to appreciate friends and community, and to give thanks for blessings enjoyed during the year gone by.

But the glittering seasonal lights will cast a shadow for many, for whom poverty or ill-health will make this a challenging time of year.

That is why we should all pledge to do what we can for those in need.

Let’s also remember to thank those health, care and emergency service workers Rhun ap Iorwerth AM and others who’ll be giving up time with their families this Christmas to keep us safe and to provide vital services.

We’ll set these dark political days to one side for a day or two over the festive season.

But as I wish everyone a Merry Christmas, my usual wish for a happy, healthy and prosperous new year is accompanied this year by a deep hope that political common sense will prevail in 2019, too.

Nadolig llawen bawb, a blwyddyn newydd dda.

RHUN AP IORWERTH

Ynys Môn AM