Time is running out to ensure Arbroath is not “left in darkness this Christmas”.
Arbroath and District Community Council has launched a desperate fundraising drive to help the Angus town continue its annual Christmas light tradition.
The community group took matters into its own hands after Angus Council confirmed it would not be hosting its regular festive switch-on celebration.
Angus Council need to save £85,000 a year and believes sharing responsibility for community events with voluntary organisations will prove beneficial.
£12,000 is needed to ensure the celebration goes ahead.
However, despite this week receiving £6,500 from Angus Council’s Common Good Fund, with just seven weeks to go until the big switch on, they are still far short of the target.
Marc Ritchie, chairperson of Arbroath District Community Council, said: “As of this morning we have raised just over £425 through the crowdfund – thank you to everyone who has donated so far.
“We need to raise over £12,000 to be able to put the lights up and take them down this year ahead of the switch on of the Christmas lights.
“This will happen on December 1, which is only seen weeks away.
“There will be many activities and stalls on the night to create the fun, enjoyable family friendly environment – including a Victorian Christmas market being held in Market Place, with many great crafting items on offer to give to family and friends for Christmas.
“Any additional funds raised above £12,000 will be put towards replacing the current lights, purchasing new lights and the storage of all the Christmas lights too.
“We are working hard to ensure the Christmas lights shine brightly in Arbroath this year and the community council cannot do this without the help of the public spirit often seen across Arbroath.”
To donate visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/arbroath-christmas-lights-and-switch-on-event
Donations can also be sent to 30 Hillend Road, Arbroath, DD112AR.
The first fundraising drive will be held at the town’s Tesco and Morrsions stores on Saturday October 28, when a bag packing event will be held between 10am and 4pm.
A bingo and stovie night will then be held on Friday November 3 at the Portcullis Bar from 7pm.
To get involved in forthcoming events and help raise funds for the community council’s campaign email arbroathcommunitycouncil@gmail.com or call 07595295527.
