A BIG thank you from Christmas lights fundraisers (From Chard & Ilminster News)

A BIG thank you from Christmas lights fundraisers

12:30pm Thursday 4th December 2008 in Chard

THE countdown to Christmas is well and truly under way in Chard after the official switch-on of the town’s lights.

The Chard Christmas Lights Action Group was delighted with the success of Friday night’s ceremony in which young singer Stevie Brown flicked the switch to illuminate the town.

Stevie, who won the Chard’s Got Talent competition, was joined for the ceremony by Chard Mayor Cllr Martin Wale.

The annual torchlight procession involving local youngsters – led by the Chard Goldstar Majorettes and the Kelly Leigh School of Dancing – was once again well-supported.

And members of Chard Concert Brass provided seasonal music outside the Guildhall.

Action group chairman Jill Watts said: “The night was a brilliant success – there seemed to be double the amount of people out and about in the town than there was last year.

“We would like to thank the traders and all the public for their continued support throughout the year in helping us to raise the money necessary to put on the lights display.

“There are too many people to thank individually for their support in helping to make this year’s display a success but you know who you are.”

Jill Watts added that for reasons beyond the action group’s and Chard Town Council’s control, not all of the lights have been able to be put up.

Jill and Mayoress Nanette Wale cut a special three-tier Christmas cake which was cut up and given out on the night. Free mince pies and glasses of mulled wine could also be enjoyed.

Earlier in the day the Guildhall was filled with stalls for a Christmas fair, while Santa met local children in his grotto.

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