2013 is already a life-changing year for one Spalding woman - because her struggle to find work is over.
In October, disgruntled Lynne Jones (46) posted a letter on the Lincolnshire Free Press and Spalding Guardian that attracted more than 100 comments.
She wrote: “Before you read this please take careful note I am not racist in any way shape or form.
“I am an unemployed Spalding resident, reasonably well experienced in the food industry. I need to work, I want to work, I like to work, yet I cannot!
“I am not looking for a major salary, nor am I too picky. I have a wealth of experience, but I could still clean a loo or pack a sprout. All I hear is I am over-qualified.”
Lynne, who starts work this week in quality control for a Spalding fruit importer, said she applied for “hundreds of jobs” when she became unemployed in the summer.
She said: “Up until two years ago when I moved to the area to be near my family I had worked solidly.
“My lowest point was being turned down by McDonald’s. Being out of work makes you feel worthless.
“It’s soul destroying - you can understand why people on the dole turn to drink. I was beginning to wonder if this was it until I drew my pension.”
Being offered a job has changed all that. She said: “It’s such a relief. I can really look forward to 2013 now.”