Sleighbells are ringing in Craigneuk
An area ofWishaw welcomed a very special visitor recently who brought bags of heartwarming festive cheer with him.
Santa Claus’s annual pre-Christmas jaunt to Craigneuk brought children in the area out onto its streets to receive some sweet treats.
And Father Christmas didn’t come alone for his sleigh dash. He had company in the shape of Mrs Claus, a team of elves, and a snowman – there was even an appearance from the Grinch.
Prior to his visit from the North Pole, leaflets had been distributed announcing Santa’s estimated time of arrival at each area in Craigneuk.
And when his sleigh pulled up he was met with dozens of happy smiling little faces as they were each handed a bag with hot chocolate, marshmallows, sweets and magical reindeer dust.The event is organised by Craigneuk Residents andTenants Association (CRTA).
Christine McGeechan from the organisation said:“Well that’s our very own Craigneuk Santa completed his street run for another year. He was delighted to see all the kids – old and new faces.
“Huge thanks to Jack Anderson for being Santa and to Pauline his wife for supporting him as Mrs Claus.Thanks to the committee who worked hard to organise it – Rose Blair as the snowmanandMegStewartandEileenBoyleas the elves.
“Thanks also to the young helpers Kieran, TammyandKateCoganandTylerandJames Richardson and friends.”
The event was a real community effort with a host of individuals and local businesses involved in making the day a tremendous success.
Christine added:“We are all tired out, but seeing all the weans’faces after such a hard 18 months made all the hard work worth it.”
Councillor Agnes Magowan was also there for Santa’s visit, and said:“What a team effort from Craigneuk – awe inspiring.
“It certainly spread happiness and joy in the community.The whole event was efficiently organised by the CRTA chaired by Christine McGeechan.They have also been working hard raising money for their street Christmas tree by running raffles and outside street stalls.
“They have the community at their heart.”