Light up the town!
HUGE crowds enjoyed the 2017 Ormskirk Christmas Lights switch-on extravaganza. The event proved even more popular than previous years, with almost twice as many people centre as last year – despite the wet weather on Friday, November 24.
There were many attractions, starting from midday with the Chapel Gallery’s bustling Christmas Market.
There were also free activities, and in the evening there was live music and free mulled wine.
From 4pm there was a market in Moor Street, including food, crafts, local retailers and traders from the Thursday and Saturday markets held in Ormskirk throughout the year.
A giant snow globe was on Moor Street, funded by the Town Centre Management Group, from around 4pm, creating a free winter wonderland photo opportunity.
The local Rotary Club accompanied Father Christmas, who was very busy, listening to Christmas lists from the many excited youngsters who came out to see him.
From 4.30pm to 6pm there was entertainment on and around the stage at the Clock Tower, including family entertainer Circus Frank, and performances by local dance and drama school Base Dance and the Ormskirk Rock Choir.
Favourite children’s characters Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and Captain America Minion were also in the town, together with Silcocks children’s rides.
Compere Andy Jay kept the party atmosphere going.
The Carol Service began at 6pm, when dignitaries and guests assembled at Ormskirk Parish Church before processing to the sounds of the piper to the main stage for the service conducted by the local clergy assisted by Friends In Unison Choir and Skelmersdale Prize Brass Band.
The Mayor of West Lancashire, Cllr Neil Furey, gave his Christmas address, then took up position with guests for the switch-on, by Don Evans, West Lancashire’s Town Crier.
Cllr Yvonne Gagen, West Lancashire Borough Council portfolio holder for leisure, said: “I would like to thank all the council staff and the groups, organisations and traders for their hard work in making the Christmas lights switchon extravaganza a fantastic night for Ormskirk.
“The town was extremely busy and many people told the council how
much they enjoyed the event.”