Santa Claus will be welcomed to Gorey next Sunday, not because he will come bearing gifts for the children, but because he will defuse local criticism over the delay in getting the Christmas street lighting to brighten up the town and signal the commencement of the Christmas atmosphere.

The Chairman of Wexford County Council, Cllr Malcolm Byrne, has expressed serious concern at the delays in putting up of the Christmas lights in Gorey, which has caused much disappointment among the business community.

He has warned that Council officials need to be more supportive of the business community, especially the retail sector.

The delay in switching on the lights is compounded by the fact on Wednesday night a number of areas in the town were without electricity.

Meanwhile, Gorey’s Main Street will be closed to traffic next Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to facilitate the Christmas Street Market.

From noon the Main Street will be a brimming with stalls full of Artisan foods and crafts.

“It’s the biggest outdoor market in County Wexford,” according to Gorey Chamber of Commerce who are organising the event.

Gorey Pipe Band will parade Santa Claus through the town centre and he will switch on the lights at 4 p.m.

Full story this week in THE GOREY ECHO.