A WISH for Oxford to become a fairer city was the Christmas message Oxford Lord Mayor Mary Clarkson has for our readers.

The Oxford Mail approached leading community figures to ask what they had to say at this time of year.

In a joint message from Oxford United, chairman Kelvin Thomas and manager Chris Wilder said: “Best wishes and Merry Christmas to all of the readers of the Oxford Mail.

“2009 has been a fantastic year for Oxford United and our fans and we would like to thank the people of Oxford and Oxfordshire for their support.

“There have been some great games over the last 12 months and we hope to have many more as the season builds to an exciting finale.”

The Right Rev William Kenney, Roman Catholic Bishop with responsibility for Oxfordshire, said: “Christmas is traditionally a time of hope. This year there seems to be little of that about.

“Maybe if we really want to find hope we need to reach out to the human beings around us, our family, friends and neighbours.

“It is in all those relationships that we will find our hope, not in systems for a better world or in a new political party or in having more money.

“So as we give each other presents, eat and drink well, let that be a sign that we really need one another and that is where our hope is.”

Dr Hojjat Ramzy, imam and trustee of the Iqra School, Littlemore, said: “Christmas is a time for families, neighbourliness and sharing, qualities which Muslims also aspire to, and I hope that this year will bring much happiness to everyone both here in Oxfordshire and around the world.

“May God bless you all.”

The Right Rev Colin Fletcher, Anglican Bishop of Dorchester, said he would visit people who could easily feel forgotten on Christmas Day.

He said: “My first port of call on Christmas morning will be Bullingdon Prison.

“They are always very welcoming and the men take the service very seriously indeed.

“It matters to them that Jesus did not just come for those who have got their act together but also for those who have made a mess of their lives.

“Whoever we are, and whatever we are going through, God loves each one of us and Christmas is His way of saying it.”

Rabbi Eli Brackman, director of Oxford University’s Oxford Chabad Society, based in the Cowley Road, said: “As a single candle can dispel the most profound darkness, a single human being, through doing one’s part to change the world for the better and performing simple acts of goodness and kindness, has the ability to make a real difference in our lives and the lives of people around us.

“May our resolutions this New Year bring more light and peace amongst all people in the world.”

Mary Clarkson, Lord Mayor of Oxford, said: “My wish for 2010 is that Oxford becomes a fairer and more united city.

“The differences in educational achievement and health across our city are shocking and it is my hope that in 2010 we can make real progress towards a more equal society.”

fbardsley@oxfordmail.co.uk