LICHFIELD LIGHTS UP FOR CHRISTMAS

An enormous crowd filled the Lichfield Market Square on 24 November to witness the switching on of the Christmas lights. Performing the switch-on was Graham Cole who is starring as Ebenezer Scrooge in the Garrick Theatre Christmas family production of 'A Christmas Carol' supported by the entire cast, and ably helped by children's competition winners Olivia Thornton and Harry Dean; and the Mayor, Councillor Brian Bacon.

The event began with community carols led by Christ Church Primary School choir; and following the switch-on, with his usual impeccable timing to the singing of Jingle Bells, Santa arrived on his sleigh to greet the huge numbers of children present.

The lights are provided by the City Council with financial support from Lichfield Chamber of Trade and from various shops and businesses in the City. Local contractors Derryford Electrical spent three weeks erecting the lighting features which feature over 5,000 bulbs across the main City Centre streets and around the Market Square.

A new feature this year was the addition of a large Christmas Tree at the Friary Corner on the entrance to the City, kindly donated by Clive and Annie Beard.

Our thanks go to all those who helped with the event organisation: Lichfield Chamber of Trade & Commerce, Sue Allister and the Christ Church School Choir, Derryford Electrical, Ken Knowles (MC), Lichfield Arts (P A system & marshals), The Plant Plot Garden Centre, St John Ambulance, Lichfield Police, Lichfield Mercury, The Bower Queen and her Deputy, The Round Table, and of course Santa!

The City Council gratefully acknowledges financial support from: Ansons Solicitors; Ego Restaurant; Kitchen Shop; Lloyds TSB; Colin Lee Opticians; Moseleys Solicitors; Salloways; Tudor of Lichfield; M A Sheldon Jewellers; Broads Travel; Brownhill, Haywood, Brown Architects; and the George Hotel.