Thousands flock to big lights switch-on
AN estimated 1,500 people attended Rawtenstall’s successful Christmas lights switch-on event, with traders reporting record footfall.
The lights were illuminated on Saturday, November 18, on Bank Street, with Paralympic hero Tom Hamer joined by Mayor of Rossendale Colin Crawforth, and winners of a poster competition for the ceremony.
The event was enhanced by a lantern parade accompanied by the Accrington Pipe Band and market traders stayed open late to sell seasonal food and gifts into the evening.
Market trader Kay Barcroft said it went “really well”, and the location helped Rawtenstall market traders.
She added: “We were wondering how many people were coming, but it was amazing. When it was held down by the clog market people don’t come up to the market. It was nice for it to be at the top end of Bank Street. It helped all the shops as well. It went really well. I’ve never seen so many people on the market and I’ve been there 12 years.”
Schoolchildren also got in the festive spirit by taking part in a competition to design a poster of the market.
Kay added: “There were six winners from three different schools. All the entries are around the market, and the six winners are on the main doors.”
Lights switch-ons and festive events are coming thick and fast now with plenty going on around the Valley this weekend.
Haslingden Cricket Club will be holding its Christmas Market on Friday, November 24 from 6pm to 9pm. There will be stalls selling crafts, jewellery, cakes, gifts, and accessories, and a bar. Entry is free, children welcome.
The Rawtenstall Christ- mas Market will take place from 10am to 7pm on Saturday, November 25 on the town square.
The Boo Theatre in Waterfoot is holding its annual ‘Festive Christmas Art and Craft Market’ on November 25-26 from 12noon to 4pm. Whitworth lights are being illuminated on Sunday, November 26 at 6pm at the Riverside on Market Street.
Edgeside Baptist Church in Waterfoot will hold a Christmas Market on Saturday, November 25. Admission will be free, with doors opening at 10am and sales ending at 1pm.
Organisers say there will be various stalls including toys, crafts, and Christmas gifts.
There will be a brass band and hot food will also be available.