Over 50 people gathered around the Christmas tree on East Williamston village green on Saturday evening to see the lights go on at 6 pm. The group, ranging in age from just two weeks to over 80 years, then sang a selection of carols. Wrapped up well against the crisp, fine night, everyone raised their voices enthusiastically before adjourning to the Community Hall for some seasonal refreshments.
It was a chance for neighbours to meet and newcomers to be made welcome, and attracted people from East Williamston, Cold Inn, Broadmoor and Pentlepoir. Children played together while adults chatted and tucked into sausage rolls and mince pies.
The East Williamston Community and Hall Association had arranged the event to see how popular it would be, but such was the warm response that ideas for more Christmas decorations, musical accompaniment to the carols and a whole evening of partying have already been suggested for next year.