The Christmas message is now available to watch on YouTube:

Cllr Ross says: "A very happy festive season to people of all faiths and those of none, and of course to those that celebrate Christmas I wish a very happy Christmas.

"To each and every one of you in South Lanarkshire - and beyond - may I also wish the very best for twenty twenty two.

"At this point the pandemic and our response continue to impact in almost every aspect of life, work, and leisure.

"We are however far safer now; more able to meet; more free to celebrate together, and to resume traditions that had to be put on hold in 2020.

"In no small part we need to thank each other for that.

"Thank you for following masks guidelines.

"Thank you for supporting the vaccine programme.

"This awful disease continues to run its course but thanks to our communal effort it leaves far less of a trail of destruction, fewer lives being lost, and huge reductions in long-term health impacts.

"I am sure it does not feel like less for those who continue to feel the consequences. I know we all offer our sincere and heartfelt support and care to them.

"As a community we have pulled together.

"As we reach the year end it is a good time to once again pay tribute to those who have helped lead us to this stage.

"Healthcare staff delivering vaccines, public sector workers (including many of our own South Lanarkshire staff) and military personnel who have supported the delivery of that programme.

"Scientists and other workers who have supported the test and trace programme; and so many more working and volunteering throughout society.

"We are not out of this yet, and the advice and medical technology continues to evolve to meet the new challenges.

"But as we head to twenty twenty two we can hold our heads up in the sure knowledge that we will continue to support each other as recovery becomes ever more our core mission.

"A merry Christmas to you all, and a happy new year for twenty two."