ONE of the greatest thing as about our country is that we have the right to freely express ourselves.

It’s something we probably don’t give much thought to over the day-to-day, but horrific events this week have brought it to the front of many minds.

Yesterday’s rally on the steps of the Sheldonian Theatre, voicing solidarity with those affected by the terrorist attacks in Paris, may seem like a small thing.

But it is the very embodiment of free speech.

Be it in support of people blighted by tragedy, rallying for or against planning decisions in your neighbourhood or campaigning to get more done in your area, cherish these rights we have to be heard.

Whatever your views, we should all be in a position to have them heard without fear of violence or intimidation – a concept which has never felt as vital as it has this week.