Updated 20:58 Hrs 20 November 2012Mark Dean chats to Councillor Brandon Eldred about this years Christmas Light Switch on in Northampton, when it is, what activities will be taking place in the town on the day and who is turning on those all important lights!
Mark starts by asking Brandon what’s happening with Northampton’s Christmas Lights this year & who is switching the lights on?
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The countdown to Christmas in Northampton starts with the annual Christmas lights switch on this Thursday (22 November).
BBC Radio Northampton very own John Griff will be hosting the afternoon’s entertainment and big Christmas countdown, which starts at 3 PM.
A touch of Christmas Past will be brought to the festivities with the screening of the movie ‘Scrooge’ and exclusive performances from the cast of the Royal & Derngate’s A Christmas Carol. There will be traditional Christmas carols sung by the Derngate Community Choir and music from the Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust. A beautifully restored vintage carousel and helter skelter add a traditional touch to the afternoon fun.
At around 5.30pm panto star Denise Welch will arrive in Abington Street with Santa and his pony and trap to join in the festivities before switching on the thousands of twinkly lights around the town at 6pm.
Councillor David Mackintosh, leader of Northampton Borough Council, said:
"The Christmas lights switch on is a lovely and exciting event which is great fun for all the family. The lights bring a magical sparkle to the town and there will be plenty of colourful entertainment to help spread some festive cheer.
"We have arranged for free parking for the event in borough council car parks from 3pm, and so there will be plenty of time after the switch on for anyone who wants to browse the shops for a spot of late night Christmas shopping.”
For a full list of what’s happening when and everything else going on in Northampton this Christmas visit www.christmasinnorthampton.co.uk
