One of the most challenging aspects of living with Covid-19 and the subsequent lockdowns was the loss of community activities over the last two years.

Since the government removed restrictions, many of these local activities have returned.

I am always conscious of how important these annual events are to our sense of place and community.

Over recent weeks we have had the chance to welcome back some of the most significant, like the Lions Show in Abbey Fields and Kenilworth Carnival, the latter nearly 90 years old.

Although the weather did not cooperate for the carnival procession, it was wonderful still to see people lining the route in support of those on the floats and walking, participants and observers giving their time (and their change) to some very worthy causes.

Congratulations are due to all who won prizes and huge thanks to the many people who put in a huge effort to make sure the carnival was, once again, safe and fun for all.

At a time when we need cheering up, these events always succeed in doing so, and they remind us what a great community spirit can do to improve the places where we live.