Christmas arrives in Mayo county town as festive lights are switched on

Christmas has arrived in the busy shopping town of Castlebar.

A large gathering assembled at Market Square in the town centre this evening for the switching-on of the Christmas lights which cover The Mall, Market Square, Main Street, Ellison Street and a number of other locations.

The ceremony was performed by Councillor Michael Kilcoyne, cathaoirleach, Castlebar Municipal District.

He praised the staff and officials of Mayo County Council for their work in putting the scheme in place for another festive season.

Councillor Kilcoyne thanked everybody for their attendance - and particularly Santa and Castlebar Concert Band, both bringing a lovely atmosphere to the occasion.

Bernard Hughes, president, Castlebar Chamber of Commerce, encouraged members of the public to do their Christmas shopping in the town as there is so much choice and many of the finest retail outlets, as well as fine coffee shops and restaurants, in the country.

"We are open for business and you are invited," he added.

He announced the chamber is partnering with Mayo Leisure Point where Santa will be in residence every weekend from December 10 up to Christmas Eve.

Places can be booked here.