Christmas 2015

We have once again had a successful Christmas time!

It started with our contribution to the Christmas Extravaganza on 28 November when Santa found a new route to Gala and arrived by train. The bigger than ever Christmas Market was already going by this time despite the weather and Santa kept the town lively by touring on his sleigh and entertaining everyone with Christmas music. After the light switch on, he led the parade to Scott Park for the spectacular fireworks display. During the day, the Club raised over £500 for local charities.

Sadly, the weather again upset things and his visit to Tweedbank had to be postponed but he chose good weather to visit children around the village on 16 December.

On 12 and 13 December, the Club held its annual international collection, thanks to Tesco who again allowed use of their foyer. Over £1100 was raised to provide clean water in countries where there is no piped supply.

On Christmas Eve, the Club continued its long tradition of holding a Carol Service around the tree in Bank Street. Duncan McCosh again led the service and told some of his inimitable Cracker jokes while the generous community donated £650. This will be donated to Mary’s Meals who help to nourish children across the Third World. During the last 3 months of 2015, any sums raised for Mary’s Meals were doubled by the UK Government. Through this money, children are enabled to have a better education and some of their mothers are employed cooking the simple meals. Over 1 million children are fed daily by Mary’s Meals and it only costs £12.20 to feed a child for a year so Gala’s money, with the UK Government donation, will feed over 100 children for a year.

President, Lynda Stoddart, said that the Club was delighted with the outcome of the events in the town and thanked everyone who had helped make them such a success, especially the people of Galashiels and District for their support and generosity.