Clocks may have only just ticked over to signify the start of spring but a north community is already thinking ahead to how it can wow the crowd this winter time, by seeking to gain funding from the National Lottery’s People Projects.
The Ullapool Winter Lights Festival have been shortlisted by the organisation for its distribution of funding grants and is now appealing for members of the public to aid in securing the vital sum to help make this year’s festival that little bit grander.
The festival’s opening, traditionally completed by the Cal Mac operated MV Loch Seaforth which operates out of the town, has received the backing of the ferry operator who traditionally sound their foghorn to kick off proceedings.
Captain of the ship John Gillies said: “The Loch Seaforth crew were honoured to be asked to carry out the light switch on for the last three years, and delighted to have been able to do it.
“We have always been treated as a part of this special and welcoming community and this was the icing on the cake for the vessel. All the crew give their wholehearted support in the community’s application for this funding.”
Money from the lottery project is to be utilised by organisers to expand the light show and deliver a Winter Market to involve producers and performers within the local vicinity.
Festival organiser Angela Ford said: “Winning this could be transformational for the community and would make our festival far more resilient for the future.
“Since the first switch on three years ag,o it really has made a huge difference to the outlook of the village at this gloomy time of year.”
Voting is open until April 15 with votes cast at www.thepeoplesprojects.org.uk