Reindeer welcomed hundreds of people to an Aberdeen church for a mince pie and warming drink as the community got in the festive spirit.
Ashley and Broomhill Community Council (ABCC) and Queen’s Cross and Harlaw Community Council (QCHCC) hosted their festive event at Holburn West Church this afternoon.
Two reindeer proudly stood outside the church on Ashley Park Drive as people of all ages gathered for their chance to feed Santa’s helpers and give them a well-earned pat.
Inside the church building, people were busy with festive crafts and enjoying the offering of free mince pies, cupcakes and warming drinks.
The free ticketed event was fully booked, with around 600 people attending throughout the day.
Both community councils have been working to support the Great Western Community Trust with their project to take on the closure-threatened church.
It is hoped this festive celebration will encourage more locals to take part in the questionnaire and support the group’s plans.
Community councillor Leila Turner-Smith organised the event and said members of both community councils were happy with the “fantastic” turnout.
She said: “It’s been such a lovely afternoon, it’s so nice to see so many people of all age groups mixing together – and nothing says Merry Christmas like real reindeer.
“It’s important to mention that we’re extremely thankful for all the volunteers and city councillor Martin Greig, who has been working hard behind the scenes and volunteered on the day.”
Volunteers from the community councils, including members from Ferryhill and Ruthrieston Community Council, Holburn West Church and local Girl Guides helped prepare the event, from making the decorations to baking around 300 cupcakes.
Mrs Turner-Smith added: “We all unanimously support the Holburn West Community Group and the Great Western Community Trust with their plans to purchase the premises and turn it into a community centre.
“We hope with yet another successful event today, it will speak for itself and highlight the building as a great asset for the community.”
‘We continue to need support’
Thomas Murray, chairman of Ashley and Broomhill Community Council, said the group was “overwhelmed” by the support for their first Christmas event.
He said: “The Holburn West Church closure will be a huge loss to our community and our attempt to purchase the church through public funding and transform it into a community centre is progressing.
“We continue to need support and ask the public for their help.”
Mr Murray is urging people and businesses to like and follow the trust on Facebook and visit the website for more information.
He has also set up a JustGiving page to try to raise £10,000 to support the Holburn West project.
ABCC hold meetings on the third Wednesday of every month at the church from 7.30pm and all are welcome.
Submit your thoughts on Holburn West Community Group’s plans by completing their questionnaire online.
Conversation