LOCHGELLY took on its popular festive look on Wednesday when the official switch-on of the Christmas lights took place in the Knockhill Close Town Square.

The Christmas Lights Committee has been working hard all year to put the funding together to get the lights in place and the result was revealed when the committee, Eileen McKenna, Helen Ross and Christine McGrath, switched the illuminations on.

Everything got underway at 5.45pm with carol singing and entertainment provided by pupils from Lochgelly High School with the switch-on taking place at 6pm.

This year the committee found themselves with a bit of a dilemma. As the new Lochgelly Community Council was not formed until the early spring there were no Citizens of the Year to carry out the ceremony so stepping into the breach were the Lights Committee members Eileen, Christine and Helen.

The weather was perfect for the evening with dry conditions, and although a cool breeze, it attracted a good gathering of people of all ages, ranging from babies to grandparents.

The beautifully decorated tree was the centre of attention at Knockhill Close and it will dominate The Cross in the coming weeks.

Said Helen: “The weather was good and it was a very good occasion with the young musicians playing their part."

After the switch-on there was a festive fayre at the Town Hall where Santa was waiting to give children a free selection box, supplied by Lochgelly Co-op.

There was a whole number of stalls selling all sorts of items and the children really enjoyed the atmosphere.

In previous years the Lights Committee have had to work hard to make ends meet and ensure Lochgelly has festive lights.

Added Helen: “We have had to work awfully hard to put the package together but thanks to continued support from several backers we have got there.

“It takes more than £7,000 each year to get to the stage of the switch-on and we have to thank everyone who has backed us this year.

“It is fine display and ensures that the town has a real festive feel to it this Christmas.”