The organisers of Dunfermline Christmas lights switch-on have defended the event after children were left in tears at missing Santa.
Thousands of people attended Sunday’s extravaganza, the first to be held since Dunfermline became a city earlier this year.
However, many labelled it disappointing after waiting in vain to see Father Christmas.
And one woman called it “the worst year ever”.
‘No Santa and no countdown’
The event opened with Dunfermline Rotary Club’s annual Santa Dash down the High Street.
And there was a community parade involving various local groups, as well as Santa Claus.
Many families had gathered at the big Christmas tree at the glen gates, where the parade normally finishes before the countdown to the lights.
But this year the parade stopped before the end of the High Street and the switch-on took place in the pedestrianised area.
And this meant some families were unable to see or hear the action.
Some took to Facebook to vent their anger.
One said: “Such a disappointment – no Santa and no countdown.
“What a let down for the kids. Won’t be back next year.”
Another added: “My son was absolutely distraught that he didn’t see Santa.”
And a third said: “My grandchildren still don’t understand why Santa didn’t show up.
“That’s what they were promised.”
Dunfermline Christmas lights: ‘Santa was of course on hand’
However, Fife Council’s economic adviser for the Dunfermline area Sunil Varu said that overall the Christmas lights switch-on event went very well.
He said: “Thanks to everyone who came along and supported this event.
“It was great to see the people of Dunfermline coming together and supporting their city.
“This year’s Santa Dash had around 80 participants and was an amazing visual spectacle.
“And the Dunfermline and District Pipe Band were very entertaining.”
Mr Varu praised other organisations involved in the parade, describing it as “a huge community event”.
“The Maygate Market was also welcomed as it shone the spotlight on the Maygate area’s fabulous independent businesses, including the recently refurbished Abbot House,” he said.
And he added: “Santa was of course on hand to help with the countdown to the lights being switched on at the Kingdom FM stage.
“We’re always keen to hear people’s feedback and take on board any comments so that we can make next year’s event bigger and better!”
Conversation