Sparks fly over 'pathetic' lights

Sharon Thompson • Published 17 Dec 2009 10:13 0 Comments

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MONEY has been pledged to avoid another year of Christmas lights embarrassment after a businessman branded the Burgh display "the worst in the west of Scotland".

Michael Curley has now dug deep into his own pocket and put forward £1,000 to ensure the town gets a decent show of Christmas lights next year, and is hoping others follow suit.

After dubbing this year's effort as "pathetic - the worst in the west of Scotland", Michael, who runs the Buffet Shop in Colquhoun Square, told the Advertiser: "Many of my customers are complaining bitterly about the poor show this year.

"There are no lights at all in Sinclair Street nor on the seafront.

"Compared to last year, the display is abysmal."

He said the lack of Christmas lights in the town centre could have a detrimental impact on the town's economy. I fear that many people are going outwith the town to do their Christmas shopping.

"They are looking for some sparkle and cheer - which they are not getting with the pathetic show of lights in Helensburgh. This is having an adverse affect on many of the town retailers and the situation has to be addressed for next year.

"As a result I am prepared to start a Christmas lights fund now by offering £1,000 and would urge others who care about the town and its image to consider giving some funds. The traders themselves have to do something. If everyone works together, including Argyll and Bute Council, we can change this for next year."

Michael's comments come as numerous residents expressed their disappointment over the small display, which only features in the Square despite being a major feature on both the seafront and Sinclair Street in previous years.

And, already this year, some of the lights - put up around Colquhoun Square - are not working.

Thousands of pounds were generously donated to the festive lights pot this year by a Helensburgh brother and sister, Kevan and Caroline Mundie, but many residents feel it is down to the council to get their finances in order so that this situation does not happen again next year.

This article appeared in Helensburgh Advertiser 17 Dec 09

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