DROITWICH Spa's mayor would like to wish residents a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Councillor Anne Taft has decided not to send Christmas cards this year, instead she will donate the money she normally spends to her charities - WaterAid and Friends of Droitwich Guides.

"I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful, healthy and prosperous New Year," she said.

From her home in Nightingale Close, Cllr Taft also looked back on 2004 and to the year ahead.

"We have again experienced a very turbulent year with our forces still out in Iraq trying to keep the peace. It is a very difficult time for their families, some of whom will be facing Christmas for the first time without a loved one. Please let us remember them in our thoughts and prayers," she said.

"On a more positive note, we look forward to a happier 2005. We have already seen the start of new shops coming to Droitwich, with even more planned for the New Year. We also look forward to the re-opening of the canal system and hopefully the commencement of the work is not too far away.

"We have some exciting opportunities ahead so let us utilise them as much as we can."