Christmas tree and lights switch -on attracts huge crowds

There was a huge attendance at the parish’s Christmas tree and street lights switch-on celebration in the main car park of the village.

Mark Kelly performed the ceremonial switching-on of the lights, and the crowd present far exceeded the numbers at previous events.

Festive music was provided by members of the local church choir and there was plenty of entertainment for adults and children. Pelican Promotions provided two playhouses for the children, who met with Santa Claus who arrived on a small double decker bus and distributed presents.

The children in turn also brought along their own presents to donate to the less well-off for Christmas.

Festive food and drink in the form of mince pieces and mulled wine and hot chocolate was served.

As usual a schools art competition was run in conjunction with the event involving pupils in the three local primary schools and the winners were presented with their prizes.

There was a sharper glow to the Christmas tree with the lights upgraded from last year, and the street lights on the promenade shone much brighter with a new set bought last year. A fireworks display on the beach brought the celebration to a cracking finale. The organisers were very grateful to volunteers who stepped in to help out with some regular helpers unable to be present.