The Christmas lights are switched on
A huge crowd filled the town last night for the switching on of the Christmas lights - and they were not disappointed. The threatened rain kept away and the evening’s entertainment was enjoyed by all.
The fun began at 5.30 p.m when the local schools’ choirs joined together to sing carols and afterwards local groups and performers kept the crowd entertained all night. At seven o’clock compere Dave Smethwick introduced TV’s Emmerdale star Fredie Jones who, with help from Father Christmas and the Town Mayor Cllr. Phillip Leason, switched on the lights. New displays this year with all white LEDs - very effective. There then came the surprise of the evening with a couple of minutes of fireworks in the sky above the stage. A wonderful sight which prompted a round of applause from the crowd.
It was good to see so much activity in the town. The stage across the top of the High Street worked well and the childrens’ fairground in the square was a great success. Even my wife Janet had a go down the helter skelter - admitting afterwards she didn’t realise it was so high! And the market marquees at the bottom of the High Street gave local groups and charities an opportunity to raise some funds.
A great evening - which was justification enough for the the fact that I was on my feet all day during the preparations!
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