Douglas is looking dazzling for the festive season after Douglas Mayor Councillor David Ashford JP switched on the Christmas lights on Thursday November 22nd.
Sponsored by Celton Manx and with support from 3FM the event saw hundreds gather outside Douglas town hall to enjoy a wealth of entertainment including seasonal numbers by Manx singer Rebecca Forrest, carols from Douglas Town Band and an excerpt from this year’s pantomime at the Gaiety Theatre, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, by cast members of the Manx Operatic Society.
A reminder of the true meaning of Christmas was provided by the Mayor’s chaplain, the Rev Les Lawrinson.
In his welcome address the Mayor paid tribute to all the sponsors and supporters who had contributed to the event’s success. He also thanked the many staff members of Douglas Borough Council for their efforts, in particular those in the electrical services section who, at times, had had to work in poor weather conditions to prepare the lights in readiness for the evening’s festivities.
Douglas Borough Council’s champion of community events Councillor John Faragher said: ‘Once again the efforts of many came together magnificently to create a really family-friendly community event. We are operating in difficult economic times and the Council was therefore grateful to be able to work in partnership with local businesses to ensure the success of the proceedings. Christmas in the capital has started in grand style and, with the Council operating its Santa tram service on Saturday December 15th and Sunday December 16th, Douglas is the place to be this Christmas.’
The Santa tram service will operate on Saturday December 15th and Sunday December 16th departing each day from the Strathallan terminus at 10am, 10.40am, 11.20am, 1pm, 1.40pm, 2.20pm, 3pm and 3.40pm.
Tickets priced ?7.50 for adults and children are on sale from the Borough Treasurer’s counter at Douglas town hall or telephone 696344. Price includes refreshments in the Strathallan Suite, a visit to Santa’s grotto and a gift. (Children under two accompanied by an adult travel for free).
