Islanders are being given the opportunity to enjoy a unique festive tradition once again this year – thanks to Southern Vectis.
This December the bus operator is offering its popular Christmas Lights Tour, taking passengers on open top buses to see the Island’s very best illuminations.
The Christmas Lights Tour begins on Monday 11th December and operates from Newport Bus Station on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays – and from Ryde Bus Station on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, up until and including Saturday 23rd December.
For 2017 Southern Vectis has teamed up with Island Echo to offer a £250 prize for the best Christmas Lights display, as voted for by members of the public. From 4th December you’ll be able to vote for your favourite at www.islandecho.co.uk/xmas.
Once again Southern Vectis is supporting Terry Ramplin’s display at Long Lane in Newport with a £250 donation. Terry’s lights will be switched on at 18:30 on Saturday 2nd December in aid of Challenge & Adventure and IOW Ambulance Service’s Defibrillator Scheme.
Southern Vectis general manager, Richard Tyldsley said:
“We’re one of the only Christmas lights bus tours in the UK – and we’re now in our 17th year. This time around, we’re offering a very special stop at Rectory Mansion in Brading, for hot drinks and mince pies – as well as carols and Christmas songs sung by local choirs.
“We see lots of familiar faces returning to enjoy the tour year-after-year – and many tell us it’s the traditional start of Christmas celebrations for them. Our drivers love it too and they really get into the festive spirit by decorating their buses with tinsel, playing carols and dressing as Santa.”
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A Christmas market will also be taking place at Rectory Mansion, Brading each night between 11th-23rd December – so don’t forget those extra pennies!
Richard added:
“It lasts for around three hours – including the stop over – and we’ll be introducing new treats and surprises this year, with goodie bags and free travel giveaways.
“A wonderful way to celebrate the start the season!”
Tickets can be purchased from Newport or Ryde travel shops, as well as by calling customer services on 0330 0539 182 (Mon-Fri 08:00 to 18:30). Tickets cost £13 per adult and £6.50 per child (under 19). A family ticket for 5 people is £33. There is a discount for Key card holders who provide their card number when buying.
For more information, visit www.islandbuses.info.
