CHRISTMAS has officially arrived in Westbury with a jam packed day of entertainment being held on Saturday, leading up to the big switch on.
The strong winds and driving rain didn’t deter the people of Westbury in coming out in large numbers to celebrate the turning on of the Christmas Lights.
The street fayre was held in the town centre with a mobile zoo, reptile display, a Christmas camel, Santa in his grotto, dance groups, street entertainers and music by the ‘Cley Hill Stompers.’ This was followed by the much anticipated switch-on event in the evening.
Before the lights were switched on the Mayor and Mayoress of Westbury presented the winners of the Christmas card competition and model competition with their certificates. Shortly after, Father Christmas arrived in style on the Lions float and his elves handed out sweets to children in the crowd.
Westbury Mayor, cllr David Bradshaw said, “I thought it was a great success and once again it was well supported by the town. I was very pleased to see so many people there, considering how cold and wet the weather was.
“It was lovely to see the winners of the Christmas card and model competition and to give them their certificates. It was so difficult for my wife and I to choose a winner as they were all superb. We were also very pleased to announce Collectable Times Antiques as the winner of the Christmas shop window competition. Crosspoint, Co-operative Funeralcare and Town and Country Estate Agents were highly commended.
“Thank you to everyone who entered the competition; again it was a very difficult decision.”
Councillor Sue Ezra, said, “As chairman of the events working group I would like to say thank you to everyone who came along to the event and to all the stall holders and entertainers who braved the weather.
“There was so much to see and do throughout the day and night. The camel in particular was very popular. The children loved that.”
Town clerk, Keith Harvey said, “Westbury Town Council would like to say a big thank you to all those who attended the Christmas Street Event and Lights Switch-On, this Saturday.
“Despite the weather we still had a very good turnout in the evening for the Christmas lights switch on. Whilst they waited for arrival of Father Christmas, the crowds enjoyed mince pies and mulled wine kindly supplied by Co-op, Morrisons, Aldi and Tesco Express. We are very grateful for the generosity.
“Finally from all the staff and councillors at Westbury Town Council, we would like to wish you a merry Christmas and happy, healthy and prosperous new year.”
