News : The big switch onLighting of the Assembly Christmas Tree
On the evening of 12 December 2006, eight boys from Campbell College School Student Council and two boys from Campbell College Junior School attended the ‘Lighting of the Assembly Christmas Tree’ at Parliament Buildings. Mr McCurdy and Mrs Magreehan accompanied us. This event was the first time in 75 years that a Christmas tree was placed outside Stormont and it was a great privilege to be there. Before we got into Stormont we had to go through a number of security checks. When we did enter the building we were all truly taken back and amazed at the size and architecture of the building. We all knew we were in a special place. One of the most amazing things was the size of the huge Christmas tree and how well it was decorated. The evening was hosted by Madam Speaker, Eileen Bell MLA and the MC was Mr Paul Clarke from ITV. There were a number of MP’s and MLA’s present along with invited guests. Before the lighting ceremony, music was provided by The Royal Belfast Academical Institution Choir and various other school choirs. The Northern Ireland Assembly Choir also took part in the proceedings. Before the lights were turned on outside we had a count down and the lights went on according to plan. As we headed back to Campbell from Stormont we could see the glow of the lights in the distance. It was a great experience and privilege to be part of the history associated with the evening. By Peter Martin Year 10 Belmont
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