Santa will drop in at Carluke Market tonight

For decades he has been dropping in on his horse-drawn sleigh for a brief word with the youngsters waiting eagerly in Carluke Market Square and to hand out oranges to them.

The Christmas lights will be switched on at 6.30pm by Carluke Gala Queen, with Santa arriving at 7pm, to join the crowds gathered around the Christmas Tree.

He will go round wishing the youngsters all a Merry Christmas in what is one of Carluke’s best-loved traditions.

Generations of children have now lined the Market Place waiting for the magical moment when the great man arrives, and youngsters nowadays are brought along by grandparents who have their own precious memories of standing at the tree waiting for the sound of bells and Santa’s arrival.

“This has been a Christmas tradition in Carluke for over 50 years and is very special event,” said Provost Eileen Logan, herself from Carluke.

“It’s a lovely way for the children to have a chance to see Santa before he starts his rounds and comes to their house.

“The carol singing is quite magical and watching the expressions on the children’s and adults’ faces is a joy.

“Having our gala queen switching on the lights really puts the icing on the cake.”

*Lesmahagow Old Parish Church will be open to all on Christmas Eve for Community Carol Singing, led by the Lesmahagow Male Voice Choir, accompanied by the Coalburn Silver Band.

That is at 6pm, and it is a family evening as it is understood that Santa Claus will be paying a visit to the church.

Mince pies, shortbread, tea and coffee will be served after the Carol Service.

*In Lanark Greyfriars Church annual Beer and Carols in The Clydesdale is on tonight, featuring well known Christmas Carols, as well as a festive themed pub quiz. That will start at 8pm and finish around 9pm.