Transcript for Chester's Christmas Lights Switch On 2011

More than 4,000 people packed into Chester city centre on Thursday evening to join the celebrations at the Christmas lights switch on.

• View: Photographs from the Christmas lights switch on

Leading the festive fun was Chester music supremo Matt Baker, who conducted women’s choir Handbag of Harmonies in a festive sing-a-long from a stage at the Cross,

As the crowd joined in a rendition of ‘12 Days of Christmas’ the decorative lights were illuminated in Eastgate Street, Bridge Street and Watergate Street.

The celebrations were rounded off with a bang as a spectacular fireworks display lit up the night sky.

Councillor Stuart Parker, Executive Member for Culture and Recreation, said: “The Christmas lights switch-on is always a hugely popular event in Chester’s calendar - and this year was no exception.

“The turnout was fantastic and it was wonderful to see everyone get into the festive spirit and join in the sing-a-long. What a wonderful way to start the city’s Christmas celebrations.”

The festivities continue this Thursday (17 November) when the city hosts its first Bright Night, featuring new light installations to complement the traditional Lantern Parade.

The parade, which begins at 7pm at the Forum Shopping Centre, will see more than 100 schoolchildren joined by colourful street performers as they carry hand-made lanterns though the city centre.

The parade will arrive at Cross to switch on the Christmas tree lights before ending its journey at the Cathedral’s Green on St Werburgh Street, where a light installation will bring the grounds to life in a stunning display of colour and light.

The Classic Christmas events and activities are a partnership between Cheshire West and Chester Council, Chester Renaissance, Chester City Managements, Marketing Cheshire and Chester Festivals.

Details are available on the Visit Chester website and in a Christmas magazine currently being distributed throughout West Cheshire.
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