The Pawn Lounge in Alexandria has taken community spirit to a whole new level after hosting its very own awards night inspired by the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards. The proceeds from the evening will help fund this year’s Christmas Light Switch-On in the town.
When the local council announced that it could no longer fund the event, The Pawn Lounge and its customers rallied together to make sure the festive tradition would go ahead.
After reaching the finals of the Community Pub of the Year category at the Scottish Bar & Pub Awards in August, owner Lynne Donnelly and her team decided to recreate a touch of the DRAM magic at home.
Lynne explained, “We had such a brilliant time at the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards that we wanted to bring that same spirit home. The DRAM awards inspired us to hold our own awards ceremony. It was such a great night, and we are delighted to be able to help keep the towns light switch on going this year without the council’s money or help.
“We managed to raise £2,100 on the night, and together with a previous donation to the switch on, we raised £2,500 in total, ensuing that the community Christmas Light Switch On will go ahead this year for our local kids.”
TV favourite Gayle Telfer Stevens, best known for her roles in River City and The Dolls, hosted the event which celebrated the people who make The Pawn Lounge what it is, with fun categories including Friendliest Face Behind the Bar, Dance Floor Legend, and Best Regular.
Lynne added, “Gayle is a hoot! She has even agreed to host the light switch on for the town off the back of having a great night at the awards with us!”
Thanks to The Pawn Lounge and its customers, Alexandria’s Christmas lights will shine bright once again this year on Saturday 29 November.