WITH the help of chart-topping band Scouting for Girls, Christmas was well and truly in the air last night as they made a surprise appearance before Marlborough’s festive lights were switched on.

Hundreds gathered in the High Street waiting to see the town lit up, unaware the pop rocking trio were heading to the stage with their camera crew to film the video for their latest single.

Their visit was kept secret as police were worried too many people might descend on the town to see them if there was any pre-publicity. So it was officially announced at 6.30pm by former Gazette reporter Nigel Kerton, who was host for the evening.

Find out more about what the band got up to in Marlborough here, as well as the Gazette’s interview with frontman Roy Stride.

And when band members Roy Stride, Greg Churchouse and Peter Ellard arrived, they were greeted with screams and cheers.

The audience were encouraged to wave their arms in the air for the video, as the group performed their new song Christmas in the Air (Tonight), followed by one of their best known hits She’s so Lovely.

Before they took to the stage, Mayor Margaret Rose announced Jenny Smithers as this year’s winner of the citizen of the year award.

Mrs Smithers, who was born in Manton and has lived in the town all her life, was nominated for her endless fundraising and support to charity MENCAP.

Scouting for Girls, Cllr Rose and Mrs Smithers all pushed the giant plunger to switch-on the lights just after 7pm.

Earlier in the evening, musical entertainment was provided by St John’s Band, Marlborough Academy of Dance and Drama, and Marlborough Community Choir, with the Phoenix Brass Band bringing the chilly but exciting night to a close.

In the town hall there was also a tree of memories for people to write messages to loved ones and Marlborough and District Rotary Club arranged for Santa to greet youngsters in his grotto.

Shops stayed open till late and the pubs were bustling, market traders provided a huge array of food and there was also hot chocolate and mulled wine to warm people up.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Many revellers are praising it as the best Marlborough Christmas lights switch-on yet and police have estimated the crowds were much bigger than last year.

Tim Cameron, managing director of The Merriman Partnership solicitors, was among the crowd.

He said: “I am very impressed. In the 25 years I have been in Marlborough this is the best Christmas light switch-on yet.”

See more pictures in the Gazette out Thursday.