It’s going to be a Christmas to remember in Newmains as the village prepares to switch its festive lights on.
The big switch on will be held next Saturday, November 20, with Special Olympics champion Peter Meechan, who hails from the village, flipping the switch.
Peter specialised in the pentathlon plus other field events as well.
Between 1982 and 1993 he competed three times for Great Britain and 17 times for Scotland.
In the course of that period he won 14 gold medals, five silver and one bronze.
Mary Gilfillan, from Newmains Gala committee, started the fundraiser to raise cash for this year’s lights.
She said: “We’re absolutely delighted that Peter has agreed to switch on our lights this year.
“He has always been a fantastic ambassador for Newmains and has always been a big support of a number of good causes within the community.
“Everybody loves him and his nephew put a post up on social media saying he’s really excited. Hopefully we get a really good turnout for him.”
Before the big switch-on at 4pm, there will lots of fun and games in St Brigid’s Centre starting from 1pm.
There will be lots of fun for the kids including a Santa’s grotto, face painting, arts and crafts and a tearoom.
There will be stalls selling various Christmas gifts, decoration, sweets, pocket money toys, raffles plus loads more.
Mary added: “It has been such a hard 18 months for everyone and this will bring a bit of cheer to everyone in Newmains.
“We’ve also a Christmas party night in Robin’s Bar on December 11 at £6 per ticket.
“The family Christmas night will also take place at Robins Bar a week later on December 18. Adults and kids are welcome at a cost of £3 per ticket.”
Last month, members of Newmains Gala committee and the village’s community council began a fundraiser earlier this month to raise a whopping £7,000 needed for festive lights and a Christmas tree.
And the total was raised within a matter of days thanks a generous donation from Carfin-based company Jordan Electrics.
Locals also backed the groups Christmas lights plan through an online fundraiser.
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