PM: 'Year of progress' for Britain in Christmas message

Britain made "real progress" in 2013 in strengthening its economy and creating jobs, David Cameron has said in his Christmas message.

In a message which otherwise stressed the religious aspects of Christmas, the Prime Minister described the year which is coming to an end as a period in which "our country pulled together to overcome the challenges we face".

And he used the message to revive his concept of the "big society", which critics claim has been quietly sidelined since playing a major role in the Conservative general election campaign.

"Looking back, 2013 has been a year when our country pulled together to overcome the challenges we face. Together we have made real progress on strengthening our economy and creating more decent jobs so that people can provide for their families.

"And there are those millions who keep on strengthening our society too - being good neighbours, running clubs and voluntary associations, playing their part in countless small ways to help build what I call the 'big society'."