Annan Christmas Lights Committee are fundraising to put on both a free display for the festive season and a switch-on evening for the Dumfriesshire town.
A small group of volunteers are entirely responsible for ensuring that Annan’s town centre is lit up for Christmas and they have launched two stunning luxury larger Christmas cards printed by A1 Graphics which are now on sale at both Home Sweet Home and Annan Convenience Store in the town for only £1.50 each – cash only.
The money raised will go towards lighting up the High Street and providing a pocket-friendly switch-on event for the whole town on Saturday, November 30.
The committee’s Julie Pepper has also launched a JustGiving Page to raise £1,000 from public donations at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/julie-pepper-2?utm, and they are also appealing to local businesses to chip in.
Julie said: “Each year a small band of volunteers help to purchase and maintain the Christmas lights and Christmas tree in Annan.
“As well as that, we also co-ordinate a switch on event for the whole town but in particular, the children.
“We rely each year on fundraising and donations to help support the costs.
“Whilst we do receive a grant towards the erection and dismantling of the lights from Dumfries and Galloway Council, everything else is provided by the Annan Christmas Lights Committee.
“Thanks to everyone who has bought cards so far.
“Without the support of such fantastic local businesses we wouldn’t be able to continue to provide all the free entertainment, Santa’s Grotto, facepainting and activities that we do for all of Annan’s children on switch-on day. Thank you so much.”
Julie added: “If you would like to help us Light Up Annan this year you can also make a donation through bank transfer to Annan Christmas Lights Committee account number 06002283 sort code 80-05-32, by cheque or cash.
“Just drop us a wee message and one of us will arrange to collect) or through our JustGiving Page.
“Thanks so much to everyone who has donated so far, it really is much appreciated.”
The team have also announced three free lantern workshops for children and the community to create one to join in with the switch-on parade.
These will be on: Saturday, November 16, 3pm to 5pm; Tuesday, November 19, from 5pm to 7pm; and Saturday, November 23, 3pm to 5pm, all in The Angler’s function room on the High
Street.
The lantern parade will take place just before switch-on by the Annan Young Citizen of the Year and organisers welcome individuals and groups who want to take part.
During the day on November 30, there will also be free entertainment on the High Street, plus a visiting donkey.
Santa will be hosting his free grotto with a gift for every single child and there will be free facepainting and glitter tattoos for all children.
There will also be two craft fayres, between 1pm and 4pm, in both The Corner House and The Market Hall.
If you’d like to book a table to sell crafts please contact Louisa at [email protected].