Virtual light switch on planned for Johnstown

Johnstown Councillor David A Bithell has said that Johnstown Community Group are changing their usual plans for Christmas this year due to the pandemic, with a move to a community event online.

Arrangements are now being finalised for a “Virtual Christmas Light Switch On” in Johnstown at St Marys Church. This will take place during the last week of November and the intention is to broadcast this on the Johnstown News Facebook page for local residents to watch.

In addition, with the support of a £1,000 donation from Rhos Community Council combined with a donation from a local company in Johnstown Fry Fresh of £250, the group are working with the Community Cafe in Rhos and the local Community Agent Michelle Wynne to provide food parcels, gifts and support for those families who are most in need through the festive season.

Grace Lockheart who runs the Community Cafe said, “We would like to thank the Community Council and all those local businesses who are supporting our work in the Community Cafe. We currently deliver to around 200 individuals each week to various homes in the local community to help them through this most difficult and challenging time.

“The support we have received will allow us to deliver special food and gift parcels to those members of the community who are most in need especially at Christmas”.

Dawn Williams Finance Director Fry Fresh Based at Vauxhall Industrial Estate said, “We are happy to support the local community for a worthwhile cause this Christmas.”

Cllr Bithell, on behalf of the Johnstown Community Group, said “Thanks to Rhos Community Council and all members we are pleased to help and support the valuable work of the local charity at the Community Cafe. Christmas can be a difficult season for many but this year is compounded with the Covid Pandemic.

“Special thanks should also be given to those local businesses and the Chapel Mawr who have provided additional space for the cafe to use. I know they have also supported the work and hopefully this will go some way to ensuring everyone in the Community will have an enjoyable Christmas and New Year”

If you would like to make any donations to the Community Cafe please contact Grace Lockhart at 46 Market Street Rhos email, [email protected] telephone 01978 447 477.

The final date is yet to be announced along with the full line up of who will appear at the virtual switch on night that will include Ysgol Yr Hafod school Choir.