In Scotland, Community Councils are voluntary bodies, which exist within a statutory framework, and which have been granted statutory rights of consultation. The general purpose of a Community Council is to ascertain, co-ordinate and express the views of the entire community within its agreed boundaries. Community Councils help ensure that the local unitary authority (for example Aberdeenshire Council) is as fully informed as possible about the circumstances, needs and wishes of local communities.

Community Councils are non-party-political and non-sectarian in their discussions and in their decision-making.

Community Councils, unlike other community organisations, are statutorily included in the consultation process for all planning applications affecting their area. There are also specific powers in relation to licensing. As community planning develops, this will emphasise the need for Aberdeenshire Council to develop its relationship with Community Councils as part of its engagement with our local communities.

Further information about Community Councils can be found on the Aberdeenshire Council website.

Ellon Community Council

Ellon Community Council meets at 7.30pm on the fourth Monday of every month (apart from July and December when there are no meetings). Meetings are usually held at Ellon Academy and are open to all members of the public who wish to attend.

Amongst their many other duties, Ellon Community Council organise and fund the Christmas Lights for the town. With the help of other community groups such as the Ellon Traders Association, the Community Council raise funds to cover the costs involved in purchasing and maintaining the Christmas lights.

The day of the big switch-on is also organised by the Community Council and normally takes place in late November. The event starts off in the morning with Christmas Huts in Neil Ross Square selling gifts and goods for local charitable causes and in 2006 a Christmas Refreshments hut was introduced which proved to be very popular - especially the mulled wine and the delicious mincemeat pies which were donated by the Ythan Bakery.

Santa's Grotto is ever popular with the kids who can give Santa their letters and receive an early Christmas gift. There are various other events throughout the day leading up to the arrival of the Prince and Princess (pupils chosen from local schools) who 'flick the switch' by the Christmas tree at the Chestnuts before leading the annual Christmas Parade around the town centre - twice! The day is completed with a spectacular fireworks display by the river.

It's a special day in a special town and the Community Council thank everyone for their continued support. The Ellon website will have all the relevant details of this year's event nearer the time.