Huge parties as our towns are lit up for Xmas

THOUSANDS of people braved the wind and rain to enjoy the Accrington town centre Christmas festivities and lights switch-on.

Choir music filled the air as pupils from St Mary Magdalen’s, Baxenden St John’s, Peel Park, Accrington Academy and Rhyddings High school entertained the crowd.

They were also joined on stage by solo artist Claudia Thompson, the East Lancashire Concert Band, the Skoot Choir, The Jerseys and the cast from upcoming Oswaldtwistle panto Beauty and the Beast.

Hyndburn Mayor Mohammad Ayub and Accrington Carnival Queen Helen Trickett switched on the lights on November 29, and the evening was hosted by Colin Manford.

Gayle Knight, who organised the lights switch-on and town square events, said: “It was a great night and we’ve had an overwhelmingly positive response.

“With all the school choirs it had a really lovely feel and it was communitybased with all the acts. Everything ran on time more or less and we couldn’t be happier.

“I would like to pay a massive thank you to everybody who was involved from the schools to the vol- unteers, stewards and the council. It was a bold move for the council and I think it really paid off.”

Visitors also enjoyed the magical Frozen snowglobe, fairground rides, a visit from the Grinch and a variety of seasonal stalls.

Hyndburn council leader Miles Parkinson said it was a ‘fantastic evening’.

He added: “It was a very pleasing family event with everyone coming together. “It shows how sturdy Accrington folk are.

“Even on an evening of rain and gales they came down in great numbers to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New year.

“The Town Hall and Market Hall were lit up fabulously and it was tied off with a fantastic fireworks display as usual.” » Pictures by Tim Bradley Photography