Issued: 21 December 2007
Provost's Festive Message 2007
2007 has been an exciting year for Angus.
It has been a roller-coaster of a year since the election of the new council in May when I was honoured to be elected as your Provost. During the first eight months in office it has been my privilege to represent the county at home and abroad.
It is always a pleasure to have the opportunity to promote our enterprise and success and I have taken great pride in doing so. I am sure that you share with me tremendous pride as the positive profile of Angus is recognised both here in Scotland and abroad.
The warm welcome extended to the thousands of visitors who attended The Open in July has brought us to the forefront of the world tourism market. Carnoustie is a world class golf course and the nail biting grand finale of the championship cemented our place amongst the greats. In addition the contribution our businesses, communities and the council made to the overall success of this world renowned event has been universally praised.
We are now capitalising on this success and using it as a platform to encourage broader activity and cultural tourism. Angus Council will continue to invest in education and the infrastructure of our county to ensure that Angus encourages entrepreneurship and entices forward thinking business people to relocate here.
Last month the Carnoustie Golf Links Management Committee were awarded the title of Angus Ambassadors of the Year, and they along with our other 2007 Ambassadors are actively promoting a wealth of Angus achievement, in the arts, business, tourism and among our young people.
The contribution made by many hundreds of unsung heroes to the life of their communities is what makes Angus such a wonderful and caring place to live. The invaluable contribution made by a host of volunteers in Angus merits mention as does the selfless devotion of carers of all ages who enrich the lives of those for whom they care. I would therefore take this opportunity to extend particular festive greetings to you all.
Some people will be working over Christmas and New Year, providing the essential services we often take for granted. We are extremely grateful to you for keeping the wheels oiled and in motion at this time of year.
Across the county families and friends will be getting together during the festive season and I am pleased that this year so many of our servicemen and women will be at home to enjoy the festivities with their loved ones. You are never far from our thoughts and prayers and we look forward to the safe return of those still on active duty.
The coming year is sure to bring its share of challenges and I look forward to working with you as we pursue our ambitions for the county.
I wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas and a productive and healthy 2008.
Provost Ruth Leslie Melville MBE