Christmas is one of the highlights of my year and this will be my first as leader of Lincolnshire County Council.
So, it means that this year as well as celebrating with my family and friends, I’ll be able to bring some festive joy to the whole county through the events the council organises.
We’re lucky to have our incredible medieval castle in Lincoln open to the public all year round, but at Christmas there is even more magic for visitors to this iconic landmark.
The castle grounds have been transformed into a winter wonderland full of twinkling lights for the ‘Castle Illuminated’ event, which is now bigger and brighter than ever.
Figures show the magnificent castle has generated £11m to the county coffers over the last year- boosted by sell-out events like the Live at Lincoln Castle concerts and the Illuminated light spectacle.
Visitors of all ages will love the traditional fairground rides and new and enhanced ‘Christmas Express’ ride - climb onboard for an enchanting journey through an avenue of illuminated Christmas trees!
Those looking for a wonderful vantage point should climb the castle’s iconic medieval walls. Sparkling with 38,000 individual lights, the walls offer stunning views of the light sculptures and festivities below, as well as of the Cathedral and across the city.
Our fire and rescue service also hold charity events across the county at Christmas and this year is no exception. Families love to see the ‘Santa sleigh’ tours around the streets and some fire stations are going all out to create grottos and fun experiences.
Follow your local fire station on social media and keep an eye out for events planned around the county.
Christmas is a time to think of others and to be as charitable as we can. And in Lincolnshire, the generosity of residents in donating to the FireFighters Charity and other good causes that these event raise funds for, is amazing to see.
So far this year £34,599.86 has been raised for good causes by the service. Last Christmas, the service raised £32,882.83 and we are on course to have another brilliant festive fund-raising push this year.
Lincolnshire has some fabulous communities and there will be lots of events and celebrations to be a part of.
I hope you have a peaceful Christmas and can spend time with your nearest and dearest. Glad tidings to all!