Malton Christmas lights (From Gazette & Herald)

Malton Christmas lights

THE news of Bob North's decision to relinquish the task of providing Malton's Christmas lights has, surprisingly, met with a muted response.

The town manager says he cannot do the job and suggests Malton Town Council might do so.

Realistically, the town council, with a staff of one part-time clerk and one cemetery caretaker, is unlikely to take up this work.

And, as there are not many people around with Bob's skill and dedication, it looks like Malton may have come to then end of a wonderful era.

Whatever the future may be, I pay tribute to Bob and his small band of helpers for the pleasure they have given to the residents of Malton and Norton, and the many visitors from outside the area, over the past 16 years.

Not many people will have seen Bob and his colleagues working in all weathers atop a hydraulic platform early on Sunday mornings to bring festive delight to thousands of Christmas shoppers.

And not many people will be aware of Mrs North's contribution in cleaning and testing the 8,000 bulbs used in the displays.

In thanking Bob and his team for all their hard work, I also express the hope that the reduction in Bob's workload will assist his return to better health.

Updated: 12:07 Wednesday, October 08, 2003