Christmas finally lit up with this year’s light switch on in Eccleshill village.
Sunday evening’s Eccleshill annual light switch on commenced, organised and fundraised by Eccleshill steering group through a summer fair which took place in September.
Terry Pearson, 61, is in charge of the Mechanics Institute. This building is provided by the local authority for the community. Terry uses this to benefit all living locally.
Helping alongside Eccleshill steering group, Terry organised for events to take place at the Mechanics Institute after the light switch on at Eccleshill recreational ground. “We had carol singing, mince pies and mulled wine in the main hall,” said Terry.
“Around 300 people turned up, mainly families, which made it a massive success. However, more can always be done with more volunteers,” added Terry.
Planning for the upcoming Christmas period, “next Tuesday is a children’s Christmas party which we don’t profit from as it is a community event.”
Terry was keen to add: “On Christmas day, my wife and I will be hosting Christmas dinner for a few local folk that would otherwise be alone on Christmas day.”
The Mechanics Institute provides certain facilities where people can meet, eat, drink. “We have worked hard voluntarily to make the building a nicer environment that people wish to visit, reinvesting every penny we make into the well-being of the magnificent building,” said Terry.
“We also have our monthly bistro event on certain Saturday evenings, with the profits going back into a kitty which funds and helps with the upkeep of the building.”
Katie Mahon, 22, artistic director for Bloomin’ Buds Theatre Company and a member of Eccleshill steering group, helped organise the company’s participation in singing some of the carols at the Mechanic’s Institute.
“I’m passionate about linking up with different community centres and groups. I like to take my singing group to perform at different events,” said Katie, when asked about her involvement.
Katie added: “Christmas carols started the evening off on Eccleshill recreational ground – we did 3 performances altogether. It was wonderful to sing in front of so many people and bring so many people together.”
Giving us a review of the night, Katie said: “The event went really well and ran really smoothly, it was all really well promoted and lots of volunteers made it a lovely night.”
