Tobermory Christmas lights switchon is a hit with residents and visitors

Mull residents enjoyed a busy Tobermory late-night shopping and Christmas lights switch-on recently.

Sophie Cattanach of Isle of Mull Soap Co said: ‘There was a fantastic atmosphere in Tobermory. The Main Street was heaving and the mulled wine was flowing!’

She said the annual festive shopping event had increased in size from previous years, adding: ‘It was lovely to meet visitors who’d travelled here especially to make a weekend of it. Lots of folk also brought their own cups/plastic glasses, which was a great idea, topping up as they went along. The kids loved the lantern parade, led by the brilliant High School Pipe Band, which was a new addition to the night.

‘Santa’s grotto was a huge hit with the kids as always – lots of magic and happy smiley faces. The hog roast rolls and hot waffles with ice-cream were going down a treat, too.’

Tobermory Gift Shop won the best shop window competition, while the island choir Natural Voices kept shoppers entertained, singing their hearts out at the clock and then moving from shop to shop, with lots of laughter in the distillery.

Sophie continued: ‘We even had a special guest appearance this year, our own new kitten Rusty walked himself down to the party and had to be escorted home in the taxi.

‘We are so thankful for everyone who came into the shop to top up on their soaps – we really appreciate the strong emphasis on shopping local and the fantastic community spirit in our town, supporting local families and local causes.

‘Tobermory’s Christmas lights are looking beautiful.’