Chamber saves the Christmas lights in Sark
Sark's Christmas spirit will shine out again this year after the island's traditional festive lights were saved.
The island has enjoyed annual yuletide lights in the main shopping road, the Avenue, for more than 20 years, but this year’s display was put into doubt after Sark Electricity announced that it was no longer able to bear the financial burden of installing, and covering the running costs of the lights.
Now the island’s Chamber of Commerce has stepped up to guarantee the display stays switched on.
‘We have come to an agreement with Sark Electricity to cover £3,500 of the costs and this will continue for the next three years,’ said Chamber vice-president Matthias Plunser.
‘The island is supporting us with donations and events and we are using some of our own funds.’
Hastily arranged fundraising events included a bingo night at the Island Hall and a coffee afternoon and raffle at the Sanctuary Centre.
The Chamber committee said it had been overwhelmed by the community spirit and support shown over the last week.
The Sark Christmas lights have been part of the island’s festive celebrations since 2000, growing from just white lights in the Avenue to a colourful display beginning with a tractor parade.
The date of this year’s switch on will be confirmed in the next few days.
Mr Plunser confirmed that Father Christmas would be back to press the plunger to turn on the lights accompanied by the current Sark Princess – a young Sark resident who was selected during the sheep racing festival in the summer.
