HILL of Beath Community Council members have been reflecting on a fine start to the Christmas season and minds are thinking ahead now to 2019.

After a busy few months organising the installation of a permanent Christmas tree at the new Community Garden, on Main Street, and the switch-on event the historic day dawned.

The first Hill of Beath Christmas lights switch-on ever took place after an address from chair of the community council, Emma Miller, followed by comments from Councillor Darren Watt.

Hill of Beath Primary School Glee Club then entertained everyone with a few popular Christmas carols.

Representatives of Keepmoat Homes, who are developing the Baxterfield housing estate in the village, presented a cheque for £1,000 to the community council, announced the winner of the Guess the Teddy's Birthday competition before switching the Christmas tree lights on.

The Glee Club sung more carols before Santa made a special trip to Hill of Beath from the North Pole to attend the festivities and meet the children.

The fun continued into the afternoon at Hill of Beath Club.

The community council's Ann Park said following the successful event that they would like to thank Fife Council for their assistance with the tree planting, electrical installation and lights; councillors Darren Watt and Alex Campbell for attending; Chris Pohlen and team from Landscape Design, Bathgate, for their work in the community garden; Keepmoat Homes for theuir support, assistance and donation of £1,000; Hill of Beath primary School Glee Club; Alex Haddow Joiners for providing a gazebo; Williamsons Haulage for providing a trailer; William Miller for musical entertainment; Brian Miller of Thistle Medical, for providing first aid cover; Morrison, Cowdenbeath, for their continued support; local Police officers who attended the event; and friends, families, residents and local businesses who provided donations for the tombola.

Added Ann, "And of course Santa who took time out of his busy schedule to go along and meet the community and local children.

"Special thanks to Hill of Beath Ex Servicemen's Club who provided further entertainment following the switch-on.

"The final Christmas event this year will be the senior residents' Christmas lunch on Saturday 22nd in Hill of Beath Club.

"On behalf of Hill of Beath Community Council we wish our community a joyous Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year."