Pub steps in to keep the festive lights twinkling
The sparkle of Christmas lights will welcome people once again
this year as a popular fundraiser returns.
The Aviator pub, Queenborough Corner, will be putting up its
display for a second time after it took on the responsibility last
December.
Residents of Foxley Road, Queenborough, used to illuminate their
homes for charity every year.
But the increasing cost of power and some occupants’ concerns
about their ability to put up the lights as they got older, brought
an end to it in what would have been its 12th year.
The Rotary Club of Minster-on-Sea came to the rescue after
Aviator manager and Rotarian Phil Chislett offered to put the
residents’ decorations up.
Club spokesman Kevin Roberts said: “Obviously their [Foxley
Road] lights were coming out of private premises so it was getting
a bit expensive.
“It is a shame they had to stop but I can see why and it was
time consuming organising it, whereas, at the Rotary Club there is
a network of people who can all do different jobs.
“Queenborough Corner is quite prominent so people can see it
when they come onto the Island.
“Foxley Road used to raise at least £1,000 and give it to local
charities, so we have taken it on and kept it going.”
He added brewers Shepherd Neame, which owns the Aviator, have
agreed to foot the electricity bill. Rotary Club members have spent
the last three weeks repairing old lights and putting them on
frames ready to be installed.
The launch will take place on Saturday, December 8, with
entertainment and music from 6pm before the switch on at 7pm.
There will be food and mulled wine available as well as
performances from Four of a Kind, Friends from Little Theatre and
the Rotary Christmas Disco.
Money raised on the night and over Christmas will go towards
charities on Sheppey.
- Businesses interested in sponsorship can call Kevin
Roberts on 07785 763793.
22/11/12
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