Published: Thursday, 26th November, 2009 6:00am

Jolly Father Christmas set to entertain kids at festive gala fundraiser

THE annual Christmas Wonderland hosted by Tranent Children's Gala Day committee offers festive fun for all ages next Saturday (December 5).

The Loch Centre fundraiser, featuring a wide range of stalls packed with excellent gift ideas and an appearance by Father Christmas himself, will take place between noon and 4pm. Santa Claus will be doing his bit for the town's gala by helping out between 1pm-3.45pm.

Tables are available for anyone wishing to display their goods during the sale. Those interested in booking a table should contact gala chairman Tom Logan on 07912859976.

Next Saturday also sees the switching on of the town's Christmas lights display, by Erin Hill, 7, and Finlay Strang, 3. The switch on takes place at the Winton Place war memorial at 5.30pm.

The gala committee has also been gifted with a funding boost from Lodge Nisbet in Tranent, after the organisation heard of the gala's recent financial troubles and donated £500 to aid the group.

Gala organisers are also investigating a substantial invoice issued by East Lothian Council for the erection of the decorations dating back to 2005. The committee has written to the council requesting further information on why the cost of erecting bunting had risen from £300 in 2005 to more than £1,000 in 2009.

Members are also concerned that proposals by East Lothian Council as part of the 'You Pay You Say' consultation, feature the withdrawal of £100,000 support for local galas.

The group claims the consequence of this loss could cost Tranent gala committee around £4,000, jeopardising the future of the event.

Mr Logan said: "I have real concerns about the long term future of our gala -_one of the largest in the county with a long tradition. I hope common sense prevails and the council responds positively."