Cash boost for Belgrave carols

– Ed Merrison
CHRISTMAS comes earlier year on year, and it seems the time for giving is already upon us.
Liz Beaton, secretary of Belgrave Region Action Group (BRAG), is singing the praises of Belgrave Community Bank after it donated $500 towards Carols by Candlelight.
Ms Beaton said BRAG would struggle to put on the event, now in its second year, without the support of sponsors. “With their help we hope this year’s carols are going to be even bigger and better than last time,” she said.
Peter Marke, chairman of Upwey and District Finance Limited which runs the Belgrave branch, was set to hand over the money on Saturday, 23 September.
Mr Marke said it was another example of the community bank concept at work. “The carols are an important event for any community and we are thrilled to do our part to help the Belgrave carols come to fruition,” he said. “While this is only a small contribution, it is an example of what the future holds for the community of Belgrave.”
The carols will be held at Belgrave Town Park on Saturday, 16 December.
Ms Beaton was keen to build on the success of last Christmas, when about 200 people turned out to enjoy the festive cheer.
“It was terrific to see the local residents getting together at a fabulous community event,” she said.