Santa Dash 29 November 2019 Lough Moss Leisure Centre officially launched the start of the festive season last night as Carryduff counted down to switch on their Christmas tree lights and start their yuletide Santa Dash around a choice of magical glow lit trails. The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Alan Givan joined Carryduff Regeneration Group to help with the big Christmas lights switch on to add some sparkle to the celebrations. Spectators were also treated to seasonal performances from St Joseph’s Primary School, Carryduff Primary School and Millennium Primary School to get everyone in the festive spirit. Over 60 Santa Claus’ then limbered up at the startline to take part in the jolly Santa Dash across a choice of 1km, 3km or 5km routes. The evening also included a special Santa Zumba warm up class, bouncy castles, children’s disco and refreshments for a truly magical evening. The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Councillor Alan Givan said, “I would like to thank Carryduff Regeneration Group for organising the Christmas Tree Lights Switch on alongside the Council’s festive Santa Dash to create a fantastic family event at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. I was delighted to see so many smiling faces enjoying the event and help raise vital funds for my nominated charity, Air Ambulance NI.” The Chairman of the Council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee, Alderman James Tinsley added, “Despite the cold weather it was superb to see so many adults and children taking the time to support such a worthwhile community event which brings people together to celebrate Christmas while encouraging families to engage in physical activity. I would like to thank Carryduff Regeneration Group for organising the event in conjunction with the Council and I hope that participants enjoyed the evening and are encouraged to take part in other Couch to 5K and Parkrun initiatives which are taking place across the Council area.” For further information on programmes and events, please contact Sports Development on 028 9260 0258 or email robert.geary@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk