A SODDEN Trowbridge couldn’t dampen the spirits of the hundreds that turned out to see the Christmas lights turned on on Fore Street on November 28.

Despite the bitter cold, huge crowds turned out undaunted, rejoicing in the festive fervour to see CBeebies star Katy Ashworth and treasure hunt competition winner Destiny, 7, turn the lights on at County Hall and the surrounding streets at 5.15pm.

“The Christmas spirit was plain to see and I was impressed by the amount of people that turned out. The Town Crier did a great job at geeing them up,” said Ms Ashworth, who is performing at Bath’s Theatre Royal in Jack and the Beanstalk.

“It is a lovely family evening and a great way to spend your weekend. I do enjoy doing these events, there is a real community togetherness.

“Everyone has come out to cheer for their town. It’s great seeing some of the youngsters and I think a lot of people are getting in the pantomime spirit.”

Town Crier Trevor Heeks, who started the countdown, praised the crowd for braving the rain.

“I think it is a brilliant effort from everyone as the weather wasn’t the best. You can see people smiling, being happy and that is the important thing. We’ve had a heck of a day, we’ve had lots of great comments,” said Mr Heeks, who started the countdown.

“Last few years the weather has been dry but what was great to see is that the enthusiasm is always there. Trowbridge comes out to pack the town. It’s a wonderful start to Christmas for the town and we thank everyone for coming.”

The day began with the traditional Christmas Fayre at 10am, with stalls, fair rides, stilt walkers, choirs, a treasure trail, dancers and reindeer on Fore Street, Silver Street and Market Street.

 

“Considering the weather has been so bad, it has been a fantastic turn out,” said Mayor Roger Andrews.

“I think the town council have done a superb job with a wonderful display. I have had a great deal of fun and I am sure everyone else feels the same way.”

After a lantern procession and the switch on, residents joined pupils from Newtown Primary School in St James’ Church for a host of carols led by Reverend Rob Thomas.

“Every year it gets better and better,” said Mr Thomas. “The children were great and it was beautifully done. It is a really great advertisement for the school and they really enjoyed it. I have to say I think this is the biggest congregation we’ve had.”

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