Kinghorn fundraising pays off as new Christmas lights go on in High Street

Festive lights were switched on in the High Street on Tuesday after a sub group from Kinghorn Community Council’s hard work to fund a replacement to put a sparkle back into the town.

The move came after the old Christmas lights broke, and then removed by Fife Council.

Covid-19 had delayed discussions on the replacement, and caused problems with fundraising events that were being planned no longer able to take place.

But the group was determined there would be new lights this December, and its fundraising efforts have now paid off.

Lesley Weaver, from the sub group, said: “Kinghorn High Street will be transformed this Christmas. It has been one of the most difficult projects to plan as we had no idea what the funding would be.

"We looked at styles and costs and decided to use motif style decorations as ongoing costs are cheaper for installation and storage. This meant we had to get the council to install electrical sockets on ten lamp-posts at a one-off cost of nearly £4000.

“Two companies quoted for the motifs and Blachere Illuminations in Ladybank was chosen.

“We have bought ten motifs and spirals at a cost of £7899, as the hire cost was almost half the cost of outright purchase. However, we will need to pay any maintenance.

“We cannot believe the generosity of the community from whom we raised an amazing £3370 through donations.”

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She said major funding contributions totalling £2460 were also received from: Paul Skinner of Scotia Bathrooms, Kinghorn Children’s Gala, Black Rock 5 and Kinghorn Golf Club.

The children of Kinghorn Primary School also raised £242.50 from a red and green dress down day.

She continued: “Finally, we have been allocated £2000 from the Common Good Fund and £5000 from the Local Area Development Fund.

“Every year we have installation/removal/storage and maintenance costs, but hopefully next year we can plan some fun fundraising events and possibly extend what we have.”

She added: “We would really like to thank everyone again because without the community pulling together, we would not have had any lights this year.”

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