“On behalf of the Scottish Conservative party, may I wish everyone a very happy Christmas.

“For most of the last 30 years, my own Christmas tradition has been to host a large family get together at home. However, the bustle, organized chaos and enjoyment of our family festivities has always made me appreciate that for some Christmas can be both lonely and financially stressful.

“So, however we each keep Christmas this year, it is worth looking out for those who are on their own and to donate what we can to support those who will appreciate the difference it can make.

“I also want to pay a special tribute to the staff in the NHS working over Christmas. 2018 has been the year when we marked 70 years of the NHS since its founding in 1948, and whole generations have now been cared for by this unique institution.

“Once again this Christmas, doctors, nurses, porters, cooks, cleaners and volunteers will be at work looking after those of us who are unfortunate enough to be kept in over the festive period.

“As a country, we may have felt divided for much of 2018 – it is the collective effort of our NHS staff, working together, who have shown us the country at its best.

“For those lucky enough not to be working, I hope you too get some much needed rest and time away from the frontline – ready to come back refreshed for the new year.”

Scottish Conservative interim leader Jackson Carlaw.