In that tiny and isolated hamlet of Sunnyville (more properly known by its original name of Achmothogair) – situated, as it is, in a remote corner of north-west Scotland – there is precious little natural light to be had around the time of the winter solstice, and life must necessarily be lived in an environment of deep shadow and artificial illumination.
It is perhaps not surprising, therefore, that the residents of Sunnyville observe the traditions of Christmas in much the same way that their parents and grandparents were wont to do in years gone by, for the shortest, darkest days of the year are considerably brightened by the trimmings that enhance the celebration of Advent and Christmas. The folk of this wee township look forward to the modest pleasures of the season for quite some time in advance, and find much enjoyment in opening the doors of their Advent Calendar day by day, to the accompaniment of warm mincemeat tart and spicy gingerbread, which they deem necessary to counteract the penetratingly damp chill of the west Highland winter…
