Johnstone’s switched on for the festive season

Thousands descended on Johnstone town centre at the weekend as the town’s Christmas lights were switched on.

Kids and adults alike were filled with festive cheer as a day of family fun kicked off the festive season.

The Pulse FM DJs hosted a main stage in Houston Square packed with young up-and-coming talent who whipped up a rousing atmosphere in the town centre.

Youngsters in attendance were spoilt for choice with the chance to visit Santa’s Grotto as well as take part in storytelling sessions by The Regal Storytellers in Johnstone Town Hall.

The children’s entertainment didn’t end there however with face painting, puppet shows and circus workshops all taking place throughout the day.

Kids could also meet some of Santa’s reindeer in Houston Square- which also hosted a funfair with games, rides and treats.

A Christmas market was run by St Vincent’s Hospice with a selection of goodies available for those early Christmas present ideas.

At 5pm, Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall was joined by lucky competition winner, Logan, 10, from Cochrane Castle Primary, on stage to push the button and illuminate Johnstone for the Christmas period.

Provost Hall said: “It’s been yet another fantastic event put on in Renfrewshire which created a vibrant atmosphere in the town centre.

“The people of Johnstone and the Villages always come out in numbers to support these events and today was no different.

“It was great to see families out enjoying themselves taking in the entertainment in both Houston Square and the town hall.

“It was an extra special day for Logan who helped me turn on the lights and I hope he enjoyed the experience.”

The lights switch-on was organised by Renfrewshire Council as part of its town centre events programme.

Renfrew’s Christmas Lights will take place on Saturday 26 November, 12pm-5pm, in the town centre.

For more information on events in Renfrewshire visit:  www.renfrewshire.co.uk/events