The weeks ahead will showcase Helensburgh at its best, all thanks to those who work hard for the town and ignore attempts to criticise their efforts.

In the run up to Christmas, Helensburgh has a programme of events that are the envy of many other towns. Those events began last week with the Round Table's bonfire and fireworks and the production of 'Oklahoma!' from the Savoy, and continue this Sunday with our Remembrance parade and service led by the British Legion.

Santa and his sleighs arrive in town on the 18th for the lights switch-on to put the town in sparkling attire, ready for the big Winter Festival weekend at the end of the month. The Panto 'Little Red Riding Hood' follows in December to get us all really in to the spirit of Christmas.

Alongside these big events, many groups will be providing Christmas cheer for those who need a helping hand with parties for the elderly, the vulnerable and those coping with illness.

We have a vibrant and caring voluntary community so I wish to use my column again to thank every single volunteer for what they do to make this town great and for the enjoyment you give us at this festive time.

You make a real difference by giving a positive image for the town and I am sure townsfolk will turn out to support your efforts in the run up to Christmas and contribute to any fundraising you need.

* I spent a few days last week touring the north east talking to large gatherings about “Local Democracy”. There is a great interest across the country in returning decision making to local areas and now this is being progressed at national level no doubt recommendations for changes will emerge.

In the meantime it was great to hear that we have a number of candidates standing to represent our community in this month’s community council elections which necessitates a contested election in Helensburgh. Well done to all the candidates for coming forward and best of luck with your campaign and I hope the electorate give you their support.

I hope this bodes well for next year’s council elections in May and that we get a large number of candidates contesting each ward. Time to start thinking about that now - a job where you can really make a difference for your community.