Plans for a Christmas tree switch-on in a Glasgow community have been revealed.
Vinicombe Street in the heart of the West End will be transformed into a winter wonderland as the annual lights switch-on returns this weekend.
There will be market stalls serving festive food and drink as well as live music from local bands, choirs and buskers to accompany the Christmas cheer from 12pm midday on Sunday, November 26.
Performers include Sabrina Mandulu and country band Rose Swan & Rex Hopper, while guests can browse gifts at stalls by Janet & John, Ziri, The Alchemy Experiment, Black Cat Alternative, Taste Spain, Hillhead Bookclub, Papyrus, Hairy Paws and Trios.
Later, the Christmas tree will officially be lit up at 5.30pm with help from DJ and presenter Josie Smith and the Beatson Cancer Charity's mascot, Bella Beatson.
Josie said: “To my mind, there’s no more vibrant and eclectic area within which to shop and socialise, than Glasgow’s West End.
"I’m really looking forward to returning to host this year’s Christmas Tree Light Switch-On. We’ll be showcasing an exceptional variety of talented local music acts on the main stage, ahead of counting down to illuminating the tree for 2023! See you there!"
Maisie Hamilton, Beatson’s community fundraising manager, added: “Beatson Cancer Charity is delighted to be working in partnership again with Visit West End, the Byres Road and Lanes Bid.
"Our mascot Bella Beatson will be making a star appearance to turn on the Christmas Lights and our fantastic team of volunteers will be doing collections throughout the day and selling Christmas cards.
“Thanks to the support from Visit West End, Beatson Cancer Charity can continue to provide vital funding to patient and family support services, plus a range of specialist posts including nursing, radiography, physics and research-based staff as well as additional staff training and development.”
The festivities continue onto nearby Ruthven Lane, where children can enjoy free face-painting and visitors can discover the many hidden gems in the Ruthven Mews Arcade, from jewellery to antiques.
Meanwhile, bustling Byres Road is only a stone's throw away with more stores offering festive treats.
The event aims to bring together local businesses to celebrate the community and has been organised by the Byres Road and Lanes Business Improvement District (BID), the firm behind Visit West End.
Chair John Turner said: "Goodness how time flies!
"I can't believe that it is time once again for the Vinicombe Street Christmas event, with music from local artists, market stalls from local businesses and the lighting up of the West End's Christmas tree at 5.30pm.
"It is always a fantastic time, officially marking the start of the Festive season in the West End
"So come along and join the fun, we look forward to seeing you there!"
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