The Lions Club of Wilro Park celebrates Christmas with a special tribute
What better way to celebrate the festive season than with a majestic tree and a ride with Santa?
The Lions Club of Wilro Park paid tribute to their former president with a tree lighting ceremony and enjoyed a ride with Santa to visit all the decorated houses in the area.
“We had the best Christmas surprise early in December as our community celebrated the true spirit of Christmas! Many residents came out and joined in the joy of Christmas! There were 15 homes in our valley which were beautifully decorated and covered in Christmas lights from top to bottom displaying the magic of Christmas and sharing peace, love and joy with everyone,” said Sandy van Heerden, from the club.
She noted after handing out treats, presents, and prizes they set off on their ride from Ridgeview Shopping Centre. They were accompanied by many cars, 15 bikes and security. All were invited to choose an angel to hang on the tall Christmas tree standing in the garden at the Lions Club of Wilro Park before the countdown began to switch the Christmas lights on. She noted every year they switch on the tree lights on December 9 and it comes on every night for Christmas.
“We do this in memory of our past club president, Molly Francis, who passed away on Christmas Day in 2010. We celebrate her life of service to others and invite visitors to hang an Angel on the tree in memory of their own someone special,” said Sandy.
After the stop at the club, the parade moved on to see the decorated houses, and the children were invited to post their letter to Santa in a special Christmas Postbox to which Santa replied.
Warnich Grimsel, the organiser for the project, stated, “It was a magical evening enjoyed by both adults and children. A big thank you to all the homeowners who shared their Christmas lights with everyone. it brought such joy and was much appreciated! We’re already thinking of next Christmas and plan to make it even better!”
“Next year will be bigger and better! On behalf of Warnich, Santa and his Elves, and the Lions Club, we wish all our friends and neighbours a Happy New Year,” concluded Sandy.
