Modern Social History · Galashiels

Galashiels Christmas Lights Appeal – #Walk4Gala

This summer, Bill Jeffrey is taking on the Southern Upland Way to raise funds for Galashiels’ Christmas lights — bringing festive cheer one step at a time! Support the cause and follow his journey.

Mark Nicol 2 Jun 2019 Galashiels 2 min read · written story

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This summer, Bill Jeffrey is taking on the Southern Upland Way to raise funds for Galashiels’ Christmas lights — bringing festive cheer one step at a time! Support the cause and follow his journey. Load the film below, then press play to watch it here in the archive.

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Bill Jeffrey is walking the Southern Upland Way this Summer to raise money for Galashiels Christmas lights. #walk4gala

Did you see the Christmas lights in Galashiels last year? No? You’re not alone. Compared to nearby towns like Peebles, Selkirk and Hawick, Gala’s festive display has been a bit… well, underwhelming in recent years.

But this year, one man is determined to change that.

Meet Bill Jeffrey – a local legend on a mission to bring real festive sparkle back to Galashiels.


Walking for Gala

This summer, Bill is setting out on an epic adventure — walking the entire length of the Southern Upland Way, a whopping 214 miles from Portpatrick in the west to Cockburnspath in the east.

And he’s doing it all to raise funds for Galashiels Christmas Lights 2024

Why? Because he believes our town deserves better — something brighter, bolder, and more magical to bring the community together at Christmas.


Make Christmas Magical Again

Bill’s passion for Gala shines brighter than any fairy light. You’ll find him trekking through the hills, crossing valleys, and braving the unpredictable Scottish weather — all in the name of Christmas cheer.

He’s not asking for much. Just a bit of support to help light up the heart of the Borders this December.

You can help:

Donate in person

  • Top Ten (Channel Street)

  • Bank Street

  • Mel’s Hair Salon

  • Weir’s Blinds

  • Russell Tyres

Or follow and support the campaign online using the hashtag:
#Walk4Gala



Let’s make Gala’s Christmas one to remember. Show your support for Bill. Show your support for the town.

Light up Galashiels this winter.

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