As the year comes to an end, many of us will be reflecting on events in 2023.

Many citizens and businesses throughout our county have found the past twelve months extremely challenging.

High levels of inflation driven by rising food and energy costs, have resulted in hardship for many families in Nottinghamshire.  On top of this was the recent flooding affected hundreds of homes throughout Nottinghamshire, including my own home here in Caunton.  All this set against a backdrop of the recent Israel/Gaza conflict as well as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

But there was one particular encouraging and uplifting event which was viewed by over 4 billion people around the world… the coronation of His Majesty The King Charles III in May.  A number of people in Nottinghamshire were fortunate to be able to attend this event in person.

As Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, I have the great honour and privilege to present a number of very prestigious Awards on behalf of HM The King to outstanding individuals and organisations in our county.  The King’s Awards for Enterprise recognise businesses with outstanding achievement in innovation, international trade, promoting opportunity through social mobility and sustainable development.

The King’s Awards for the Voluntary Service is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK.  The work done by these organisations over the past three years is truly inspiring.  As we look ahead to 2024, the priorities as set out by HM The King are very fitting … ‘The 4 Cs’: Communities (particularly the cost of living), Climate, Culture and Commonwealth.

In March 2024 I will be retiring as Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire, so this will be my last opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year.  Have a very enjoyable festive period with family and friends and a very big thank you to all those of your who do amazing things to help others in your communities and who create prosperity to help people live their lives better.

Best wishes for 2024.

Sir John Peace

Lord-Lieutenant of Nottinghamshire