‘Let’s make Christmas the bright spot of a dark year’
CHRISTMAS lights will adorn Town again this year after the fundraising target of £32,000 was reached.
Santa’s switch-on will be brought forward by a week, although there is insufficient sponsorship for it as yet.
The charity St Peter Port Christmas Lights steers fundraising efforts to cover light maintenance, installation and electricity costs.
Charity chair Jax Robin said she was absolutely delighted that the funds had been raised.
‘We now wait for Santa to switch on the lights, which this year will take place on Saturday 21 November,’ she said.
‘This is a week earlier than usual to help support the #ReviveAndThrive of our High Street, plus boost the “feel good” of us all by giving us the joy of seeing the lights for longer.’
More details about the switch-on will follow.
Usually the slogan is ‘don’t let the lights go out,’ but a more poignant one was chosen this year.
Ms Robin said: ‘Our slogan this year was “let’s make Christmas the bright spot of the year.” Hopefully Christmas will be the bright spot of this rather dark year.
‘We hope that Guernsey residents support their local retailers more than ever and in doing so businesses are able to survive; giving hope in what has been a dark and difficult year for many.’
Fundraising began in July through an envelope drop scheme sponsored by Guernsey Post.
‘Thanks to the amazing generosity of the people of Guernsey for all their donations, you raised over £25,000. Also to Deputy Joe Mooney who, knowing we had approached government for the shortfall and not had any response, took up the reins ensuring that Economic Development granted us the remaining funds to ensure this year’s display went ahead.’
Funds were needed by September so that contractors could be commissioned to bench-test, maintain and install the lights.
Lighting locations include: Trinity Square, the former flower market, Smith Street, the Pollet, the High Street, Church Square, Quay Street, the Arcade, Fountain Street, Le Bordage and Mill Street.
Tables are available for the Annual Christmas Themed Fundraising Quiz, this year hosted by Josh Gabriel on Saturday 14 November 2020.
n Email jaxr@cwgsy.net or visit www.christmaslights.gg for details.
