ACE team get the go-ahead to light up Christmas

A COMMUNITY events team has been given the go-ahead to host next month’s Accrington Christmas lights switchon.

Hyndburn council approved the Accrington Community Event (ACE) bid on Tuesday and will kickstart the borough’s festivities on Thursday, November 28.

Sarah Barton, chair of ACE, said the fledgling group are ‘extremely privileged’ to have been chosen and aim to build on the success of previous years.

Pupils from local schools will entertain the crowds with choir singing following the traditional blessing of the crib.

Local organisations, charities and businesses will also be encouraged to get involved on the night by holding stalls and pop-up shops in the Market Hall and on the Town Square.

Sarah said: “We feel our bid truly represented the whole community ,focusing on the inclusion of local charities as well as local businesses.

“Hail, rain or shine the committee will pull out all the stops to make it a fantastic evening with live music from school choirs, local performers and a showcase from the fabulous Just Imagine.

“This of course followed by the light’s switch-on itself and a spectacular firework

display. The event will also include the Magical Market in the outside market pavilion where there will be charity stalls such as tombola’s, fun and free activities for the kids and the Selfie Elfie Station.

“Also this year local businesses will be offered the chance to showcase items, including some delicious and tasty treats.”

Earlier this year ACE hosted the Easter Saturday Extravaganza in Accrington and helped organise the biennial Accrington Carnival.

Deputy council leader Paul Cox said: “ACE have a proven track record of putting on successful events and we wanted to keep it local and ensure that there were local acts, schools and community groups.”

To get involved with the Christmas lights switch-on call Sarah on 07412647168, email sarahhallworth@ yahoo.co.uk or you can visit the Accrington Community Events Facebook page.