THOUSANDS of people turned out on Friday (November 18) as Trowbridge switched-on its Christmas lights display to bring some festive cheer and sparkle to the town.
So many people crowded into Fore Street for the annual event that some were disappointed to be unable to get close enough to see it.
Trowbridge mayor Cllr Graham Hill was assisted by Town Crier Trevor Heeks, his mayoral cadet Sophie Dooling with Town Crier Trevor Heeks and BMX star Amelie Eaton, ten, to switch-on the Christmas Lights.
The event was accompanied by a parade featuring hundreds of people holding paper lanterns! A special mention to Jenny Quigley local artist, who delivered over 28 workshops within the community, helping to make the lanterns which were led by the Jamma De Samba band.
There was also a fireworks display in the Town Park and a fun-filled Christmas Market in The Civic Centre to keep the crowds entertained.
Trowbridge Sensory Garden also flooded the garden with light, by hundreds of tea light candles. The garden is maintained by volunteers.
Cllr Denise Bates, former mayor of Trowbridge and chair of the town council’s leisure community committee, said: “It was an absolute delight to see so many people attending our Christmas Lights switch-on event.
“It was testament to the many months of dedicated work put in both by officers at the Town Council, especially the Leisure and Information teams, and our young people participating in singing and the lantern parade.
“We are very grateful to the exceptional turn out of stall holders in both the Town Hall and the Civic Centre and it was wonderful to see both venues busy throughout the evening.
“The lantern parade, led by the excellent samba band, was a credit to the many young people who spent numerous hours constructing their lanterns – many ably supported by local artist Jenny Quigley.
“The parades through the park were a fitting accompaniment to both the switch-on and fireworks.
“Trowbridge has always been blessed with such an incredible community spirit and it was a delight to once again see so many smiling faces across our county town.”
Trowbridge Town Council leader Cllr Stewart Palmen was also delighted with the turn-out, saying: “Well done Trowbridge! Lantern Parade, Christmas Markets, Christmas Light switch-on. So many people!”
One resident said: “There was a great atmosphere” while another added: “We had a great time but missed the switch-on because we just couldn’t get through all the people.”
The event also included a pantomime performance by Stagecoach Trowbridge on the main stage in Fore Street. At The Civic, the Rock Choir kept the crowds entertained, and the bells of St James’ Church also rang out.
Photo Credits: Trevor Porter
