by Gráinne Connolly
Local residents have taken to social media to express their anger about this year's Christmas tree in Castledawson (right).
After posting an image of the tree, a spokesperson for the group said:
"This is Castledawson's Christmas Tree 2017.
"Just cannot believe it! If Mid Ulster District Council thnk that this gesture to our community is worthy- then think again.
"There are those who would say it is better than nothing - not in this case! We would be much better off with nothing than this specimen of artistic decorating.
"Please remove it - is too embarrassing for the council, and Castledawson, to call it "our Christmas Tree".
"Imagine sending a picture of this to friends or loved ones living abroad."
A second facebook page was then set up called 'Light up Castledawson', campaigning to get more Christmas decorations and lights in the village.
One person said they thought the council should "have a heart" and put up extra festive lights and decorations.
Representatives of the group have also organised to meet with local Councillors today to discuss the matter.
Q Radio contacted Mid Ulster District Council regarding the situation with Castledawson's lack of Christmas enhancements compared to other areas across the district area.
(Well lit Christmas tree in Dungannon - illuminated at the Christmas light switch on at the weekend)
A spokesperson for the council said:
“Castledawson is one of the areas that this year transitioned from direct Council provision to community led provision with ongoing Council technical support.
"The grant allocations from the Council, which should be used to support the supply, installation, maintenance and running cost of providing festive lights and any associated switch-on/launch event, are based on the village settlement size and range from £1000 - £2500.
"Castledawson received the maximum amount of £2500 and was also able to retain the Council Christmas lights from previous years.”
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