Residents in Arbroath and Letham turned out in force last night to enjoy their Christmas lights switch-on events.
The Arbroath crowds enjoyed music from Radio North Angus, a funfair, and performances by acts such as Limelight, Showcase the Street and the town’s pipe band.
A host of activities and stalls combined to create a family-friendly occasion, capped by a Victorian Christmas market in Market Place.
Responsibility for festive light shows across Angus has largely been taken on by locals this year after the council cut its spending.
The authority has provided match funding to some communities, while the Arbroath lights campaign received £6,500 from the town’s Common Good Fund.
Arbroath community council also received a Lottery grant of £7,750 towards the cost of putting the sparkle into the town’s festive season.
The Letham switch-on was organised by the Letham Feuars Committee.
The group worked with other volunteers in the community to provide the Christmas tree, as well as the lights in the Square.
North East Scotland Conservative MSP Liam Kerr said it had been heartening to see so much community spirit in action across the region as the festive season approaches.
“If it wasn’t for the work of local groups, town centre carol singers would be singing their hosannahs in the dark,” he said.
“Rotary clubs and Round Tables have also been instrumental in keeping Christmas as a special time of year.
“We owe a great debt to them and I hope that Santa is good to them this year.”
