Shropshire Star

Thousands out for Shrewsbury Christmas lights switch-on

[gallery] Thousands of people packed into Shrewsbury for the switching on of the town's Christmas lights.

Published

The ever-popular Christmas Cracker vent featured choirs, dance performances, live music and, of course, a visit from Santa.

It started as ever with the lantern parade, as a drum band from a town scouts group led scores of youngsters on a walk from Darwin Shopping Centre down to The Square for the big countdown to the switch-on.

The lights were turned on by cast members from Theatre Severn's pantomime Peter Pan, town crier Martin Wood and mayor of Shrewsbury Councillor Beverley Baker.

Santa and his sleigh were in the Square courtesy of the Rotary Club of Shawbury and Mid-Shropshire.

Alongside the switch on, a stunning visual display the 'Clockwork Toy Factory' from new media light artist Andy McKeown was projected onto the town's museum and art gallery.

There was also live music, with a total of 15 acts, including Shrewsbury Concert Band, Rock Choir and Shrewsbury College Performing Arts Students, performing at various locations around the town.

Councillor Baker said: "It was absolutely fantastic. I have no idea how many were there but there must have been thousands.

"The Square was absolutely packed, as were the streets right the way up to the Darwin and Pride Hill."

Meanwhile, in the Darwin Shopping Centre hundreds of people took part in this year's Tree of Light ceremony.

Each year members of the public are encouraged to sponsor a light on the tree in memory of loved ones.

The appeal is organised by the Rotary clubs of Shawbury and mid Shropshire and raised about £6,500 for charity last year.

The town's indoor market last night launched the first of its late-night Christmas shopping evenings.

The market hall, off Claremont Street, was open until late and shoppers were able to browse for gift ideas and enjoy a bite to eat in the market's restaurants and cafes.

Last night's crowds were also treated to the premiere of Shrewsbury's new Christmas video, which was beamed on to the front of town's the museum and art gallery.

Shropshire Council also started its festive park and ride service last night.

Every Wednesday up until Christmas people can either travel free on park and ride, or park free in council-owned long-stay car parks after 4pm.

Sorry, we are not accepting comments on this article.