This week's story about Hazel Bruney and her newborn son Anthony is a reminder about what really counts at Christmas.

Although born 28 weeks premature, little Anthony proved he was a fighter and is due to be home in time for Christmas Day.

His mum is overjoyed, and with good reason.

There were weeks of agonising waiting while medical staff worked round the clock to help her son pull through, but he was resilient and is now a healthy 6lb 7oz.

This is a time of year when we should remember that things are less than perfect for a lot of people.

The global financial crisis has taken its toll and left many out of work or heavily in debt.

Conflicts continue to rage around the world, and there have been recent atrocities like the terror in Mumbai.

But in spite of everything, there are still plenty of reasons to celebrate and be thankful for what we have,however big or small.

Hazel and Anthony remind us all about some of the most important things in life; family, love and hope.

Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.