THIS time last year you printed my letter, in which I roundly criticised the Christmas lights switch on event in Chippenham. 
Following last year’s event I had a meeting with the Chippenham BID team and the town council and I agreed to help with the organisation of this year’s lights switch on event in an attempt to deliver to the people of Chippenham an event that they could all be proud of. 
In truth my involvement was simply to make suggestions about the format of the event, which was to bring back the fundamental elements that make Chippenham’s lights switch on unique, such as abseiling Santa, the fair, High Street market stalls and some street entertainment. I also supported the move of the event back to the Market Place. 
I have to say that I have been overwhelmed by the amount of positive comments I have heard following the event on Friday. It was simply amazing. 
I’d like to thank the legendary Torvill and Dean for giving up their time, for free, to switch on the lights, and all the other acts and performers on stage and in the town.
The professionalism and organisational skills of the event management team shone through and I would like to heap praise on Michaela Rowland, the BID events co-ordinator and Jules Brogan, the event manager who, in conjunction with the Chippenham BID team led by Matt Powell, BID manager, organised the whole event. Chippenham Town Council also deserves some recognition for putting their faith in the BID team for this year’s event.
As a BID levy payer I want to see my levy fee going towards events and initiatives that bring customers to the town that will support the local businesses. 
Friday night saw a huge crowd of people in Chippenham, which included hundreds of children enjoying all that was on offer. 
There was Christmas music playing and festive food and gifts available. I would like to thank everybody who attended the event for giving the BID, in conjunction with the town council, a second chance to get it right. I hope we didn’t let you down. My only disappointment was that the fireworks team had to abandon the display because the wind speed and direction was dangerous for the crowds. I am assured that a further event will be organised in the run-up to Christmas where we will be treated to the fireworks display. There are still a few lessons to be learnt from this event and I hope to be working hard next year to deliver an even better event for Christmas 2017.
Happy Christmas everyone.
NIC PUNTIS
Sarah-Jayne’s Café
Chippenham