The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Theresa May celebrated the contributions of British Tamils in a Thai Pongal message.

“We should all celebrate our Tamil community,” the Prime Minister said.

“Small in number but big in impact, every day and in every corner of the country you help make Britain the successful, thriving, diverse place it is today.”

I want to send my warmest wishes to our British Tamil community this Thai Pongal.

Time and again - we see the immense contribution our Tamil community makes to the UK through your tireless hard work, dedication and generosity of spirit.

And today - as we work to build a stronger, fairer Britain, where everyone can make the most of the opportunities that are on offer - you show just what can be achieved through a combination of talent and commitment.

So just as our Tamil community comes together to celebrate, we should all celebrate our Tamil community.

Small in number but big in impact, every day and in every corner of the country you help make Britain the successful, thriving, diverse place it is today.

And at this time of giving thanks - I want to say thank you, for all that you do and for your contribution to so many spheres of our national life from small businesses to the NHS.

This is a very special time of year.

A time to welcome the harvest and be thankful for nature’s gifts.

To enjoy time with family, friends and neighbours.

And to look to new beginning and the promise of the New Year.

So let me wish Tamils in this country and around the world a very happy Thai Pongal.