Gatehouse of Fleet youngster turns on Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary Christmas lights

A Gatehouse youngster had the honour of turning on the Christmas tree lights at Dumfries Infirmary.

Five-year-old Zara Elliot, who has been a patient at the hospital, turned on the lights at an event which also featured a performance by a choir of pupils from St Joseph’s College in Dumfries.

Zara’s dad, Scott, said: “Zara’s been a patient since before the new hospital opened and it’s been a great honour for her to come and switch the lights on because she really enjoys Christmas.”

Children’s ward senior charge nurse Kirstine Burns introduced Zara to the crowd and started the countdown before Zara herself pressed the button.

Kirstine said: “Zara was an absolute star and a natural in front of the crowds. We were really pleased that she could come along to switch on the lights and usher in that Christmas feeling.

“We also owe a really big debt of gratitude to the children from St Joseph’s College in Dumfries, who came along and entertained visitors and patients in the hospital atrium before venturing outside to accompany the lighting of the Christmas tree.”