WELL, Santa’s little helpers have popped up again at Lakeside so we are well into the silly season, or “Winterval” as the PC brigade would have us call it.

I think it must be “Winterval” because it is a “W” interval, with “W” standing for “woolly” – and I don’t mean the jumpers we put on to keep out the cold!

Winterval is woolly because it really doesn’t mean anything. It is just a silly attempt to rename a Christian festival for fear of offending those of “other faiths or none”.

Well, my Muslim and Jewish friends aren’t offended by Christmas any more than I am offended by Ede or Hanukah and my atheist friends have April 1 as their festival anyway (Psalm 53, verse one).

As for my agnostic friends, those whose response to God is “not sure” or “don’t know”, I have a simple Christmas message to leave with you during this festive season.

Eating, drinking and being merry is a good thing to do at Christmas because there is much to celebrate with family and friends.

Exchanging presents with those you love is important too, provided it is with moderation and unselfishness.

Remembering the poor and the lonely and the sad should also figure somewhere as should a chance to reflect and reassess.

Most of all, dear readers, don’t forget that while Santa only gives presents to those who have been good, Jesus gives His presence to all – the good, the bad and the “triers”.

As the old carol says: “Where meek souls will receive Him still, the dear Christ enters in.”

Happy Christmas everyone! – JOHN.