The last day of 2011, Hogmanay, New Year’s Eve

This has been a strange year. Ordinary people have had their lives filled with terror, dreams have been stifled and snuffed out. Many have lost their livelihoods or their homes or both. The price of essential items has been rising week after week. Natural disasters have swirled around the world and millions have endured the pain in their wake. I do hope that 2012 will be a kinder, safer and happier year for us all.

In the meantime, here is a little to help celebrate the end of the year and the start of what is to come . . .

• Happy New Year Everyone!

For those who have someone serving abroad.

A little bit of fun.

Unusual firework display .. to start 2012!