Wellington’s Christmas season got under way this weekend when festive lights were switched on through the town and on the High Street Christmas Tree. The big red button was pressed by Lauren Cornforth-Smith and Jake Bowden from Wellesley Park School whose essays on “What makes me proud to be a Wellesley Parker” won the school’s own competition. The pupils were accompanied by Mayor Dave Mitton.
A 2 hour programme of events leading up to the key moment brought out the crowds. Many shops stayed open late and added to the Christmas spirit with their own window decorations. One Stop had even found a couple of elves to work in the shop.
Wellington Majorettes – some dressed as reindeers – opened the party, followed by carols and songs from Christina Green, Charles Dyke and pupils from St John’s Primary School. A magic roundabout kept little ones entertained and 1st Wellington Scout Group’s hot dogs provided nourishment.
Members of the cast of Wellington Pantomime Group’s Christmas production of ‘Scrooge’ – out on the street in full Dickensian costume – were a reminder of Christmas past.
The charming Celebration of Light and Peace Garden, now in its seventh year at the Quaker Meeting House, created a ‘Narnia-type woodland’ of lanterns and candles which will be open on Wednesdays on 26th November, 3rd and 10th December from 4pm to 7pm.