Christmas lights are a success

SIR, — As a past chairman of Downpatrick Business Forum and a proud resident of the town, I felt that I had to write a few lines to congratulate Down Council, the new Chamber of Commerce and everybody who made the annual Christmas lights switch on in Downpatrick an overwhelming success.

I have been both saddened and disheartened to see and hear a near constant barrage of negativity about the town over the last few years. It seems that for many, it was easier to be cynical about the efforts of the few wanting to develop the town whilst ignoring their own responsibilities to the area they live and/or work in.

I am a ’blow in’ to Downpatrick but in the last ten years I have made it home; what we lack in the facilities or charms that other towns may have, we make up for and surpass through our community. A recent family bereavement showed me first hand just how caring and genuine the people of this small part of County Down can be.

We now have the beautiful new millennium square at the heart of our town, a 

great cinema, a new Down Arts Centre, a few promising new restaurants, and top health facilities in our 

new hospital. 

Thursday also showed me that when we do it and do it well, the people will come and participate.

Well done Down Council, Downpatrick Chamber and well done to all that braved the cold and turned up. 

As a father, I can tell you that my young daughter didn’t stop smiling and bopping to the music from start to finish.

Yours etc.,

JONATHAN WALSH,

Downpatrick.