The end of an old year and the beginning of a new one is always a time to reflect – and then look forward.

Yes, 2022 had its challenges from the devastating war in Ukraine to the Prime Ministerial merry-go-round at No10, the highs of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations to a period of national mourning to mark Her Majesty’s passing.

Then there’s the cost-of-living crisis, spiralling energy and food prices, double digit inflation and a looming recession.

But through it all Huddersfield people have shown remarkable positivity and fortitude and Huddersfield Hub has told some heart-warming and inspirational stories in 2022.

Huddersfield people have continued to be generous in their support of charities and good causes and are always willing to help those in genuine need.

That’s why, as we enter 2023, there’s every reason to be positive and hopeful for the future. Blue skies and warm sunshine lie ahead and better times will return.

And with these Huddersfield people – and thousands more unsung heroes in our midst – we know we can look after eachother and step into 2023 with confidence knowing we can get through this together.

In the words of Her Majesty: “We should take comfort that while we may have more still to endure, better days will return.

“We will succeed – and that success will belong to every one of us.”

Here are seven stories to warm your heart.

The smiles say it all as children in Ukraine receive teddies and essential supplies from Huddersfield
Disabled fundraiser Stephen Collins talks of his ‘lucky life’ as he smashes gruelling challenge for Cancer Research UK’s Stand Up To Cancer
Friends forever – how Eden and Beau inspired their communities to raise more than £1 million in just a few months
Meet the blind girl inspired to learn Irish dance by the Christmas classic Fairytale of New York by The Pogues
How Newsome Panthers rallied behind Bev Newton after she was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease
Former Mayor of Kirklees Clr Mohan Sokhal tells how heart-warming encounter with future King Charles III put him at his ease
How Frozen fan Alice found a best friend and the confidence to raise awareness of autism