Kate Bush thanks the NHS in Christmas post: "Let’s hope they get the pay rises they rightly deserve"

Kate Bush has uploaded a rare message for fans on her official site ahead of Christmas, sending wishes that "2022 is a happier year for everyone", and thanking the NHS for their work during the pandemic.

"With nearly two years of Covid, are any of us the same people we were before? It’s left everyone confused and uncertain of the future," Bush wrote. "It’s been a terrible time of loss for so many. I want to say a big thank you to all the people on the front line and in the NHS. I have such huge respect for all the nurses and doctors who’ve already been working flat out for nearly two years. These caring people are showing such extraordinary acts of kindness to others. Let’s hope they get the pay rises they rightly deserve."

She continued, "I’d like to mention something that happened a few weeks ago on a walk; stopping to look at the view, I noticed something moving in a tree right beside me. It was a Goldcrest - the smallest bird in Europe, even smaller than a wren. I stood still, hoping not to frighten it away. Its colouring is beautiful - a peacock’s eye on each wing and a striking yellow streak on its tiny head. This gorgeous little ball of fluff flew away after ten minutes or so. I’ve only ever seen one once before and very briefly. It made my day. In these strange times, I really hope you can get the chance to stop for a moment and feel nature around you."

"Please stay safe," Bush added. "Wishing you a restful Christmas and hoping 2022 is a happier year for everyone."