Christmas lights are switch on across Strathearn

Dec 1 2009 by Caroline Boxer, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

STRATHEARN is now aglow with Christmas illuminations following light switching on ceremonies in both Comrie and Crieff.

The festive displays were turned on in Comrie on Thursday by local resident and prospective parliamentary candidate Annabelle Ewing.

The event was made special by the local Rainbows, Brownies and Guides who sang carols prior to the switch on and Comrie Pipe Band who played to the glow of the lights following the ceremony.

Comrie businesses also entered into the yuletide spirit and held their annual late-night shopping evening to coincide with the event.

On Saturday attention was focused on Crieff with the switch on of the town’s twinkling displays.

A packed programme of entertainment and fun, organised by the Crieff Community Initiative, led the way for the sparkling moment, with performances by Gringo, Crieff Drama Group, the Turleum Twirlstars majorette troop, The Strathearn Singers and a visit from Santa adding a touch of magic to the whole proceedings.

A large crowd gathered in James Square for the count down at 4.30pm which was carried out by pupils from Crieff Primary School, St Dominic’s RC PS, Morrison’s Academy, Ardvreck, Crieff High School, and Muthill Primary.

For the first time the event was broadcast live on Perth FM for the whole of Perthshire to hear.

If you haven’t been to a switch on yet - then don’t panic, as Muthill & Tullibardine Community Council are holding their Christmas Tree Lights Switch on Tuesday, December 8 at 6.30pm.

And if you are looking for an opportunity to view Strathearn’s lights why not head to Crieff on Thursday, December 10 for the late night shopping event.

Over 30 businesses throughout the town will be open from 6pm to 8.30pm, with plenty of Christmas cheer thrown in.

The event will be launched with live music in James Square and there will be a special competition to win a Santa sack full of gifts from each of the shops taking part being run on the night.

Come along and join in the festive fun.