Gatehouse of Fleet Christmas light switch on proves a hit after venue change

A change of venue proved a big hit with the public for the switch on of the Gatehouse Christmas lights on Sunday evening.

The event had been staged on the cobblestones outside the Mill on the Fleet in previous years but the revamped Gatehouse Gala and Christmas Lights Group decided for 2021 the main town park would provide a better setting.

Stalls for the Christmas market ringed the area as star guests Creetown Silver Band played a medley of festive tunes to add to the sense of occasion.

Committee vice-chairman David McNicol told the News: “Everybody enjoyed being outside shopping again.

“The gala committee has amalgamated with the Christmas lights committee and this was our first venture since we took over.

“We got a great turnout of people and the charity groups and stalls made a good bit of money.

“And Creetown Silver Band playing just made it.”

Committee chairperson Sara-leigh Cain paid tribute to all those who helped make the event such a success.

A total of £512 was raised for good causes with the cash being split between MOOL in Dumfries and the Beatson cancer centre in Glasgow.

Sara-leigh said: “Thanks go to the stall holders, Santa, our gala royal party, Gus and the 3R’s Christmas crew, visitors and the most amazing team of helpers.

“We had fabulous stalls and thoroughly enjoyed the brilliant Silver Band too.”