Thousands gather to enjoy Christmas lights switch on

The countdown to Christmas began this evening with the Alderley Edge Christmas lights switched on, which we believe attracted the largest crowd ever.

There was a fantastic atmosphere in the village this evening, with thousands of local residents and visitors gathered on London Road for the lights switch on which was performed by actor Les Dennis.

The Coronation Street star was accompanied on stage by Heart FM DJ Lorna Bancroft and the winners of the school's poster competition, Leila Vigerstaff from Year 3 at Alderley Edge Primary School and Florry Perry from Year 1 at Alderley Edge School for Girls.

For the first time, the ever popular event, organised by Alderley Edge Traders Action Group and the Parish Council, included a Christmas market with 40 stalls located down the centre of London Road. Amongst the stallholders were a number of local businesses including Wienholts, Ayla Rose, The Botanist, The Lavender Tree and Tomfoolery at 34 (which is due to open towards the end of January 2015).

Father Christmas made an appearance, having set up his grotto on the top floor of a double decker bus, and the children were also able to enjoy a giant snow globe and fairground rides.

Throughout the evening talented local performers took to the stage, which was hosted by Ollie Dunn, including girls from Alderley Edge School for Girls and Alderley District Scout Band. An open mic followed which included a Christmas sing along with Paul Pashley.

Many of the village shops stayed open during the evening, including Meeks Shoes who took the opportunity to host a launch party, whilst bars and restaurants offered a selection of special Christmas treats, including mince pies and mulled wine.

Entertainment on the stage continued into the evening with crowds of people choosing to carry on partying in the bars and restaurants.

Above is a selection of photos taken during the evening. The first 21 are by Matt McNulty Facebook @Picturematt Photography, Twitter @Picturematt.

Tags:
Alderley Edge Christmas Lights, Alderley Edge Christmas Lights Switch On, Les Dennis
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Comments

Here's what readers have had to say so far. Why not add your thoughts below.

Duncan Herald
Friday 21st November 2014 at 1:35 pm
Congrats to the Traders Association.
Congrats to Diane Smith, who organised all the C.E. stuff.
Congrats to the Parish Council for paying for much and those Parish Councillors who aided.
Congrats to all those who turned out.

As they used to say in the '50s; 'damn good show all round'!