Who would have thought we’d all be getting a general election for Christmas – what an excellent present (straight face emoji).

The jostling has started, the egos this year are the biggest in my lifetime.

Brexit is bound to dominate the national media agenda and there is no doubt it's a hugely important topic. But Brexit alone should not dominate your thinking - you must make space to consider the wider issues. Homelessness, poverty, equality or lack of it, affordable housing (if that actually exists), employment prospects, the NHS - especially mental health services and adult social care - are just a few that come to mind.

It's easy to get swept away with the personalities and tribal voting but this general election comes at a time when the country is more divided than ever. When the vulnerable and less fortunate in society are at greater risk of being left behind.

I'm a strong advocate for people exercising their right to vote and I fear voter apathy could force a low turn out. I draw the line at making voting compulsory like it is in some countries such as Australia but I do feel we should all do our best to choose the party or local MPs who represent us, our families, communities and global interests the best.

So this election - when it's cold outside - please go and cast your vote. But make sure you've done your research first because there's no point moaning after if you stayed at home.