Christmas greeting from Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Aasim Rashid

Mayor and Mayoress Aasim and Rifit Rashid

A Christmas message from Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Aasim Rashid.

As Mayor of Rochdale, I want to say a very happy Christmas and peaceful new year to all residents of the borough. It has been another tough year for us all, but one which has shown our community at its very best. I want to pay tribute to our borough’s strength of purpose, diversity and inclusivity which has again prevailed during a challenging 12 months.

There has been many happy occasions to cherish, where we were able to safely meet up together and see family and friends once again. Those precious visits to see our loved ones, which we all took for granted, safely returned. It was also so moving to see care home visits safely return, as loved ones could once again hold hands and hug again. Those basic human emotions which we had all missed so much. As Mayor, I was also proud to lay a wreath on Remembrance Sunday, as the borough came together as one in November to pay tribute to the fallen. We never forget them.

It’s also been heartening to see the vaccine rolled out so successfully. It was great to see so many older and vulnerable people coming forward, to get vital protection from the virus. Let’s not forget, when we get vaccinated we are not just protecting ourselves. It also protects our friends, family and the community.

There is a lot to be proud about in our community. A lot of fantastic people, businesses, voluntary groups, charities, schools and shops doing great things. The backbone of our borough has always been you, its residents.

So let’s reflect on a year that has been challenging, for sure, but also where a lot has been achieved. There is still a lot to do in 2022 to be this virus, but please take care this Christmas, stay safe, continue to follow the guidance and enjoy those precious moments safely with your loved ones. Enjoy the festive period, but please enjoy it safely. Also, please make sure you come forward for your first, second or booster vaccine.

Thank you for all your support to the Mayoress and I. It has meant so much to us, we are made so welcome on all our visits.

Festive greetings and a peaceful and safe new year to you all.

Councillor Aasim Rashid
Mayor of Rochdale