Angus Provost Helen Oswald has praised people for supporting the Angus Foodbank Christmas Appeal.
The provost used her Christmas message to note that the festive period can be stressful for some residents and a time of financial hardship.
Mrs Oswald said she was pleased the foodbank had been well supported, as people’s thoughts turned to others.
She said: “I was so pleased that Angus people rallied round once again this year to support the annual Angus Foodbank Christmas Appeal.
“Angus Foodbank supports vulnerable people at Christmas and throughout the year and it is heartening that during such a busy period, our citizens took the time to think about how they could help others.”
The provost said she was particularly pleased that Angus’ Fairtrade Zone status was extended this year and said she was “constantly inspired” by people in the county who were making a difference.
“Communities across Angus have been working for some time to ensure a fairer deal for Third World producers,” she said.
“This resulted in the county receiving the great news that our Fairtrade Zone status had been renewed for a further two years.”
She added: “I am constantly inspired by the people I meet as provost from our Special Olympians who successfully took part in this year’s Great Britain National Summer Games, to the outstanding individuals and organisations who were recognised at the 2013 Angus Ambassadors Awards.
“They are all a great credit to the county.”
Mrs Oswald, who serves as a councillor in Carnoustie, said there were several Angus events in 2014 to look forward to.
“Looking forward to the new year, some major events will keep our fantastic county and its people in the international spotlight,” she said.
“Arbroath will be the place to visit next April as it hosts an exciting Homecoming Scotland event as part of the annual Tartan Day Scotland Festival.
“In July, we’ll be a host venue for the Commonwealth Games and we’re looking forward to giving a great Angus welcome to athletes and spectators from all over the world for the shooting competition at Barry Buddon.”