Vice President of the Lions Club of Tortola, Nichola Dunkley, who delivered the president’s message, said the event is one of the club’s signature projects.

“This longstanding tradition of the Lions Club marks the official kick-off of our holiday season and Lions take great pride in bringing it to the BVI community,” she said.

Ms Dunkley added that this year’s celebration comes at the end of one of the most difficult years in our lifetime, marked by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic; however, this situation can be improved with unity in purpose and the resilient spirit of the Virgin Islands.

"Many among us are experiencing hardships we never imagined in our Virgin Islands. But as we did after Hurricane Irma, we shall rise at the end! However, we will only rise if we work together and continue to be our brother’s keeper. The Lions Club of Tortola is committed to doing our part to help our Territory rise.”

Food & toy drive

Dunkley further said, in recognising the needs of the community, the club opted to add a food and toy drive to their annual Christmas activities this year.

“We know that families are having a difficult time with many out of work. We want to help them enjoy Christmas, reinstate smiles on the faces of our children and lift the spirit of the community this Christmas. Later this month, we will be distributing toys to the children and food to our seniors, families and the less fortunate.”

She said so far the response from the community in support of their efforts has been “outstanding,” and also publicly thanked the businesses who are also supporting the initiative.

Ms Dunkly said the Food Drive at One Mart was a huge success and will continue at Bobby’s Marketplace on December 5 and 6, 2020, and at Riteway in Pasea on December 12 and 13, 2020.

"The Toy Drive has started and continues until December 15. The public can drop off toys at Bolos Department Store, Island Services, CTL Home Centre and RTW Cash and Carry,” she informed.

A host of local artists and bands also played a part in serenading onlookers at the Christmas tree lighting.