Thousands enjoy Lanarkshire reindeer parade as town's Christmas lights finally switched on

dailyrecord.co.uk:

There was twice as much Christmas cheer in a Lanarkshire town centre at the weekend as locals turned out in their droves for a festive spectacular.

Due to high winds last Saturday, the Hamilton Christmas lights switch-on event had to be postponed to December 3. It meant the dazzling display was set to take place immediately after the reindeer parade scheduled for Saturday.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android An estimated 6000-7000 people lined the streets for the celebrations as the festivities got underway.The day was full of live entertainment, lots of activities and games for the youngsters, as well as the ever-popular Christmas food and drink markets on Quarry Street.The switch-on was hosted by Lanarkshire drag queen Garry King who introduced this year's special guest to push the button.Turning on this year's festive lights in the town was the winner of the recently-run Hamilton Hero competition which recognises local people who have gone above and beyond for their community.Nominated this year was Mandy Ballantyne who raises money every day for vulnerable families in need all year round.

She does this daily through bonus ball raffles and also Facebook appeals.The award was presented by Jodi Robertson from the Regent Shopping Centre.