Most of us (probably all of us) are glad to see back of 2020!
As we move into a New Year, we all hope for better times ahead. But in all probability, the situation will worsen before it improves.
I find the multitude of viewpoints the most difficult to deal with. Sure the Government have not handled the challenge as well as they might, but some of the theories proposed are frankly ridiculous. The argument that carrying on as usual, "while protecting the elderly and vulnerable, is a pipe dream" - if keeping the spread of the virus and associated death is very difficult in lockdown, how on earth can letting the Virus 'rip' be anything other than crazy!
The hospitals are struggling now, so how on earth if a dramatic increase in infection rates and hospitalisation would our wonderful doctors and nurses cope.
In March this message from a young lady in Spain regarding her father who is a Doctor on the front line fighting this evil virus portrays the dangers and anxiety suffered by innocent souls.
Health professionals are not risking their lives every day for you to be living like nothing is happening!
Looking back at the brighter aspects of 2020, the use of Zoom for maintaining business links and Virtual Events has opened new avenue which will become part of future communications, even IF/WHEN we return to normal!
The new Normal WILL be different, that is for sure!
The English Apple Man picks out one Journal from each Month of 2020 to revisit
In January the EKFS Annual Dinner and Orchard Competition Presentations. In his President's address, John Guest highlighted the importance of People as the driving factor in the progress of our fruit industry over the decades. Behind every advance has been 'a person' who initiated and drove forward new systems, varieties, technology, marketing ideas etc.
January - A busy week for The English Apple Man
In February the Journal highlighted the desperate need a clear policy for migrant harvest workers after Brexit. The largest UK grower AC Goatham expressed their concern:
"We are writing to express extreme disappointment and quite frankly disbelief with the Government's recent announcement of the proposed new points-based immigration system. If it is implemented, it will affect the future, successful operation of our business and risk the jobs and livelihoods of hundreds of our employees and also those in the businesses that support and supply ours".
February - Tree Fruit Day
During March the tone changed and this passage summarised the fear and impending challenge.
This message from a young lady in Spain regarding her father who is a Doctor on the front line fighting this evil virus portrays the dangers and anxiety suffered by innocent souls.
"Most positive cases run with mild, flu-like symptoms that can be handled with NSAIDs and rest. It is estimated only 14% of cases need intensive care, most of them are patients in high-risk groups. My dad is not in that group. We think he is in a critical state because he was very, very stressed when he caught the virus and stress leads to a weak immune system.
My point is, even though chances are low, just because you're young and healthy does not mean you won't have a hard time if infected!
Health professionals are not risking their lives every day for you to be living like nothing is happening.
March - Crazy times beckon
COVID dominates our lives but blossom time brightens our mood
April - Blossom brings some cheer
Traceability is important
May - Traceability is important
It's always good to see what's going on in the orchards
June - It's hot out there
The changing climate is driving new apple breeding
July - Apples for a warmer climate
Gala Club 2020
August - Gala Club 2020
Introducing a great new apple for the garden
September - Bladon Pippin a new apple for the garden
A very different National Fruit Show
October - The National Fruit Show 2020
Seeking optimum light is the key to improving yields
November - Seeking maximum light
A journey back 130 years
December - Looking back 130 years
To all my readers, I wish you a Very Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year 
Take care
The English Apple Man