In these uncertain times, it is good to add a little sparkle to life and what better way than through the creativity of our very own young people in Inverness.
In 2019, Eastgate Centre ran a competition across local schools asking pupils to design a new Christmas light for Eastgate Shopping Centre. There were over 65 entries from which three winners were chosen in different age groups.
Scottish supplier Flying Colours who provide all the Christmas decorations at Eastgate, including the magical Santa’s sleigh and flying reindeer which adorns the Centre atrium, have been busy bringing these creations to life. Each new light design, which stands 1.5 metres high, has been made closely following the youngsters designs using aluminium frames and LED rope lighting.
In the Primary 1-3 category from Holm Primary School, it was Elli MacLean’s drawing of a snowman which caught the judges eye. Whilst in the Primary 4-5 category from Dalneigh Primary School, it was Amy Fox’s brightly coloured candy cane drawing which caught their eye. Finally, the twinkly star drawing created by Kayleigh Paton from Millbank School in Nairn was the winner in the Primary 6-7 category.
“It was a tough job choosing just three winners from the many creative entries we received” said Jackie Cuddy, Centre Manager. “In fact, at one point we were considering adding a couple more because we just couldn’t decide! I am so looking forward to seeing the faces of the youngsters when we unveil their designs in lights and having these additions to our Christmas lights for many years to come.