Notable moment in our history
It seems the weathermen cannot decide if we are to face a drought this summer or, as they now predict, we face the wettest summer since 2012 with little sunshine and persistent soggy fields. If the latter, it doesn’t bode well for hay making, harvest or livestock, and will certainly result in some very grumpy and stressed farmers.
2012 was the second wettest on record, with only 2000 being wetter.
Records dating back to 1910 show the five wettest years in the UK have occurred since 2000, with the exception of 1954.
In England, March was the wettest since 1981 and the third wettest on record; many parts of southern and central England and south Wales received more than double their average rainfall, in stark contrast the dry February.
Is it possible that the whole country can turn to a fresh page as we enter this new era.
The Coronation is a notable moment in the history of the nation, a time to reflect on the country’s future, and the part we all play and acknowledge how fortunate we are to have the reliability and stability of the Monarchy.
Could those, who for reasons which the majority find unfathomable, who are doing their best to drag the country down to the lowest common denominator, be persuaded to show some pride and loyalty to our nation.
Surely now is a good time for everyone who can, to pull their weight, work hard, be a contributor not takers, and be proud, respectful, valuable contributors to British society.
How many more strikes do the public have to put up with? There are now few areas of life that remain untouched as health workers, teachers, train drivers, barristers, and civil servants withdraw their services, making life for the sick, parents, children, commuters, travellers and those trying to pull their weight and earn a living, intolerable.
Events such as cup finals, and the Eurovision song contest which we are hosting on behalf of war-torn Ukraine, will be disrupted. In the circumstances, how shameful that it may have been better for Ukraine to hold the Eurovision in Kiev despite the risk of Russian missiles striking the venue.
What a privilege it is to live in a free democracy, a country which is not at war.
We do not have to shelter from bombs without food, water, or electricity.
Those who struggle with the current cost of living have the back-up of government support, and welfare which ensures no one goes without, and now more families can receive benefits whilst also being encouraged to return to work.
Charities give support, provide food banks and other vital services, offering a safety net ensuring no one goes without.
In too many countries around the world people face real hardship as they are ravaged by famine, war, civil unrest, genocide, and displacement. They truly have nothing, no welfare or safety net to save them.
To read Carola’s columns in full, go to: www.carolagodmanirvine.com