Sometimes it’s those small yet symbolic moments that lift your spirits and make you smile.
For me this week I had one of those moments when I saw the amazing display of colourful umbrellas in the High Street in Salisbury.
The umbrellas are a bright, joyful canopy and given what the city has gone through and continues to go through, the display invokes a brightness and sense of positivity.
It reminded me, and I hope many others, that Salisbury is a beautiful and unique medieval city with so much to offer.
At a recent community meeting in Amesbury, a local resident said something that has stuck with me ever since.
He said: “Amesbury will carry on carrying on, that’s what we do."
It’s that show of strength and remarkable spirit that will help Salisbury and Amesbury get back to normal.
Let’s be realistic though – it’s going to take time and patience and belief.
Salisbury was just starting to get back on its feet when the second incident struck in Amesbury.
It was a shock to everyone and the reverberations were felt across both the city and the town.
During this difficult time it’s important we do all we can to assist the local economy; and local businesses need to speak to us if they are struggling as there is help available.
The Enterprise Centre at The Old Fire Station in Salt Lane in Salisbury has business advisors that provide free advice and access to funding.
Or you can also visit the Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Hub or call 01225 402096.
We have to look forward and believe in the future while confidence in the city gradually rebuilds.
Like the umbrellas, so colourful and vibrant covering the High Street, I feel the future for Salisbury and Amesbury is bright.
