- By Gerald Patterson, Chairperson – Howick Village Association
Another year has almost passed. Probably a year that many will be pleased to see the end of.
Weather has not been great, criminal and antisocial behaviour has affected many, the economy has been a challenge and the tail of Covid still lingers.
Having said that, there was plenty to cheer about in Howick Village.
The Cultural Food Festival earlier in the year and the recent Star Insurance Hop were two key events that not only gave Howickians enjoyable days but introduced many outsiders to the village.
Business activity has been mixed however an ongoing sign of the vibrancy of the village is that when one business moves on, another very quickly fills that space.
Compared to other retail centres where empty retail spaces dominate, our village has vacancies for only a short time so that must be taken as a sign of confidence.
Some of the next events to enjoy and participate in are the Howick Santa Parade on Sunday, December 10.
This year is the 70th anniversary of the parade organised by the Howick Children’s Charitable Trust.
There is still time to participate in the latest ‘Shop & Win’ promotion that finishes on December 15 and children aged 5-12 can hunt for the Christmas Mouse from December 11 – 22. The prize is a huge toy hamper!
Remember also the annual Carols by Candlelight on Stockade Hill at 8.15pm on Sunday, December 17 – a great family event.
I could list countless people and organisations to thank for their contribution to the village in 2023 but won’t name any apart from Jane and Sarah from the Howick Village Association for their efforts not only for the work in the visible promotions but in the many behind-the-scenes tasks that managing Howick Village entails.
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and let’s hope for a more stable and prosperous 2024.
