Annan Christmas Lights Committee have, once again, organised a wonderful Christmas light switch-on for 2019.

And they have a message for the people of Annan:

“It’s not just us who light up Annan – it’s you! Bring along your lanterns, your fairy lights, your LED diddly-boppers, and those light up whirly things that you sweet-talked your folks into buying you on your last holiday. Light up your bike, your scooter, your tennis racket, your clarinet, or your favourite hat. And if you’re accompanying any children, don’t forget to light up yourselves too! “No actual flames though please!” – Elf & Safety.”

Switch-on day for 2019 is Saturday 7th December –  meet in Farmer’s Den carpark at 4pm for the procession to set off at 4.15 towards the stage.

Santa is coming too!

As part of Annan’s light switch on event, we will be welcoming Santa himself to town! He’ll be helping our Young Citizen, Devon, to switch the lights on, but he’s arriving early because he’s heard that the little people of Annan have made it onto the nice list! Well done you guys!

Bring your little people along to meet him at Mad Notions craft shop at the top of Bruce Street. He’ll be there 2 – 4pm (Sat 7th December) but please don’t leave it too late. Last year it got very busy – and though we’ll do all we can to avoid any disappointment, the big guy does need to leave at 4 to join the parade. There is no charge to meet Santa and he’s bringing a wee gift for each child. That’s right – no charge!

Events take place all day!

Merry Christmas Annan! 🎄 🚥

Find out more about Annan Christmas Lights Committee

The meeting to launch Annan as the History Town was very well attended with forty people turning out and another thirteen who could not make it, tendering their support for the project. There was a good mix of business and community representatives and a very productive discussion took place to agree the way forward.

The new group could well be the basis of a community trust to attract large investment in the town/DG12 area.

Key points coming out of the meeting …

There was unanimous agreement that the refurbishment of the Victoria Hall Complex to form a heritage attraction showcasing Annan’s history in a modern, engaging and interactive way is a priority. I was given the clear message that the Council should revitalise the plans for the decaying building and transfer it into a modern civic centre with modern facilities to host events and performances. One suggestion is to call it the Queen of the Border Centre. The Development of Annan Harbour was also seen as a priority

Next steps …

The next steps will be to set up working groups to take forward the idea of a Heritage Trail Map and phone app, to develop a plan for how Bruce’s Annan Motte and Bailey could be made more attractive for visitors and another group to be formed to look at developing a programme of events for the town.

Get involved …

If you want to find out more and / or get involved please contact Richard Brodie at Richard.Brodie@dumgal.gov.uk.

Dumfries and Galloway Council Community Safety Team are running an Engagement Day in Annan on Wednesday 22nd May from 9am to 4pm.

You can talk to them about a wide range of issues including:

• littering
• fly tipping
• abandoned vehicles
• removal of sharp objects
• neighbour disputes
• mediation
• dog fouling

Can’t make that day? Call the Community Safety Team on 030 33 33 3000