Guyanese turned out yesterday in large numbers as Courts Guyana held its annual Christmas tree lighting along Main Street.
Timeka Marshall, Ryan Hoppie, Y3K and Esther Osborne were among several local artistes who served up the evening’s entertainment, on a programme ably hosted by Simon Harris and Nurriyih Gerrard.
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand turned on the lights and in keeping with the advanced technology Courts has been using recently, flipped the switch by way of a smartphone, with the assist of a number of children invited from among the hundreds in the large crowd.
Manickchand made brief remarks in keeping with the season, stating: “You don’t have to be wealthy or rich to share. Once you can love someone you can share with those around us.”
Managing Director of Courts Clyde de Haas, in brief remarks, acknowledged and welcomed everyone that participated, especially his staff. He said Courts makes it a priority every year to host the event and sees it as a way of acknowledging customers for their support throughout the year.
Also present at the event was the first lucky winner of the ‘Courts Big Prize Promotion,’ Latchmin Singh, of Clonbrook, who received $2 million. Singh won after she made a purchase and was eligible to enter the ongoing promotion; over $15 million in prizes are to be won.
Meanwhile, customers at the Courts Mahaica branch will spin the wheel today to win cash and prizes.
The event was also graced with the attendance First Lady Deolatchmie Ramotar.
Following the entertaining programme of songs and dances, the First Lady shared the significance of Christmas and encouraged sharing and caring during the festive season.
Finally, the excited children’s long wait came to an end as Santa Claus arrived on a truck, attended as usual by Mrs Claus and his team of cartoon characters all dancing to popular songs.
