When we are feeling overwhelmed with all of the pressing issues ongoing in the UK and the rest of the world, it is very easy to overlook some of the lighter feel-good stories that are covered in the news.
This is why we have compiled a round-up of some of the most wholesome and positive stories we shared this month that we hope will bring a smile to your face.
January 2021 saw a great deal of both individuals and groups being presented with 'Rose of Northamptonshire' awards - which recognise those who worked tirelessly as part of the COVID-19 response effort - and residents across the county were able to enjoy a few days of snow, which made for some fun pictures!
Which story was your favourite?
13. Long-serving teaching assistant from Raunds celebrates being hailed a 'Trinity Treasure'
Mother-of-two, Joss Middleton, who had asked for a job reference from a school and ended up as a teaching assistant has marked 25 years in the role. Headteacher Tom Burrows said: "For 25 years, Joss has impacted on the lives of hundreds of children who have attended our school. Her warm and friendly nature makes the children feel so welcome at school."
14. Northampton mother named as Rose of Northamptonshire after feeding 2,000 people during pandemic
Anya Willis, 38, was nominated for the award after she helped feed thousands of people since the pandemic first began back in March 2020. She volunteers at the charity, Re:store Northampton, whose projects range from crisis support, providing food and necessities to those suffering from unforeseen economic hardship, to longer term support work in the form of sharing skills and giving emotional and practical support.
15. Readers share their 2020 lockdown wedding photographs
Lots of happy couples sent in photographs of their weddings that took place during and around both lockdowns in 2020 and we shared some of our favourites.
16. Pubgoers help Northamptonshire children learn from home with donated laptops and tech
The team behind The Narrowboat in Weedon took action after finding it "unfair" that pupils had no choice but to take classes from home when they don't have access to a tablet or a laptop. After a successful fundraising campaign, owners Karen and Richard gave away four tablets and four laptops so children can keep learning through the lockdown.