Light fantastic glow gets town all switched on

Town Crier Hilary McGrath introduced the proceedings and Garstang Community Academy Band led the music making at the market cross by The Royal Oak. Members of the public of all ages, Cubs and Brownies gathered round to join in three carols and a team of volunteer elves distributed sweets to children.

After thought provoking words from Methodist minister the Rev Keith Borwick and a community count-down, the switch-on itself was performed by youngsters Emily Danson, Joshua Fricker and Cerys Dorrity, with Youth Mayor Louise McCarthy, Garstang Mayor Coun Chris Ryan and his Mayoress Mrs Robyn Halford. Wyre Council’s mayor and mayoress Coun John and Mrs Linda Hodgkinson,local Coun Lady Dulcie Atkins and Norah Hoyles, MBE also joined the switch-on group.

Thanks were given to all those who helped fund or donate to and organise the Christmas lights, which stretch down High Street, Market Square and on to Bridge Street, and will provide a seasonal backdrop to the Victorian Christmas Festival, which runs from 6pm to 9pm, on December 9 and 10.