Switch-on of Christmas lights is on the cards

He, or she, will be invited by Mayor, Cllr Ian Cunningham, to press the switch at 7pm in the Market Place, to mark the start of Westbury’s Christmas festivities.

Cllr Cunningham said: “We’ve laid on some fantastic entertainment this year and we look forward to the community coming together for this very special annual event.

“The whole town will be open with seasonal activities taking place in the Market Place, Westbury High Street, Maristow Street, the Parish Hall and All Saints Church.”

An evening of spectacular entertainment is planned for the town’s residents as part of a day of seasonal fun.

At 1.40pm, and back by popular demand, the magical Snow Lion will be making an appearance at the fun fair.

Other events and activities include Santa’s grotto, a winter market, and an evening concert with music from local groups and a 40-strong gospel choir.

At 3pm a winter market opens on Maristow Street, Edward Street, Market Place and, new for this year, an indoor section in All Saints Church Hall.

There will be a variety of stalls open until 9pm and residents are urged to come and do some of their Christmas shopping.

The Snow Lion and Christmas Elves will be parading through the market to announce its opening. It will be make its final appearance at 4.10pm.

Local dance group, Infinity Dance, will be performing at 3.20pm in the Market Place to get the party going.

Santa’s Grotto also opens its doors at 3pm in the Market Place where Father Christmas will be meeting local children until the Grotto closes at 5pm.

From 5pm the Market Place stage will come alive with a exciting evening concert and Christmas Lights switch on, with Santa appearing on stage and a special Westbury video.

Music, including all the Christmas Classics, will be provided by the Will Blake Band, local favourites The Frome Street Bandits and Westbury’s Mollie Green.

There will also be a 40-piece gospel choir to keep everyone entertained.