First Minister John Swinney joined hundreds of Perth residents for some festive fun at a community Christmas party at the weekend.
Mr Swinney visited the annual North Muirton Community Centre event on Sunday, December 15 for the BIG Christmas Fun Day.
An estimated 350 people attended the North Muirton Community Centre event and a total of 140 presents were handed out to children welcomed into Santa’s grotto to receive their gifts.
North Muirton Makers also hosted a bustling Christmas market at the fun day.
Mr Swinney took time to speak with event volunteers and market stallholders.
He said following the visit: “I was delighted to attend North Muirton’s BIG Christmas Fun Day and see so many families coming together to enjoy the festivities.
“Events like this are a fantastic way to strengthen community spirit and bring joy to people of all ages.
“I offer my sincere thanks to the organisers and volunteers whose hard work made it all possible.”
There were also performances by the Fair City Baton Twirlers, Julie Young Dance Group, and Perthformance CIC.
Cee-Cee Entertainments hosted the event, and festive characters added to the magic.
Attendees enjoyed free food and drink, competitions and raffles.
One competition held in memory of former Provost Mike O’Malley featured a 43-inch Smart TV donated by his trust won by local resident Liz Cross.
This year The North Muirton Community centre saw 650 bookings, five major events, and sixteen free community lunches through it’s doors.
North Muirton Community Centre secretary Craig Allardyce said: “Mr Swinney’s presence at our BIG Christmas Fun Day highlighted the value the centre brings to the North Muirton community.
“The year 2025 promises to be an exciting one for North Muirton Community Centre.
“Our plans include trialling a new youth initiative and returning with another block of Weekend Warm-Up lunches early in the year.
“The centre will also focus on improving communication with the wider community to encourage greater involvement.
“Infrastructure improvements are also on the horizon, with a defibrillator set to be installed on the outside of the centre and work commencing on a new entrance, expected to be completed by summer 2025.”
More information about the centre can be found at www.NorthMuirtonCC.org.uk.