Festive spirit lights up Kirkham for the first time

Kirkham Christmas lights switch on in the market square.
A festive window display and lit tree on Poulton Street. PIC BY ROB LOCK
2-12-2016 — Kirkham Christmas lights switch on in the market square. A festive window display and lit tree on Poulton Street. PIC BY ROB LOCK 2-12-2016

Festive spirit was in the air when hundreds turned out to a Lancashire town's first Christmas lights switch on.

Kirkham held its very first switch on in recent years on Friday night after the community banded together to form an organising committee and raised funds.

It began with the blessing of the crib before a lantern procession, led by Santa on his sleigh, made its way to the Market Square.

School choirs and local singers performed for the crowds.

Kirkham Christmas lights switch on in the market square.
A Christmas elf takes time out to join the fun. PIC BY ROB LOCK
2-12-2016 — Kirkham Christmas lights switch on in the market square. A Christmas elf takes time out to join the fun. PIC BY ROB LOCK 2-12-2016

And finally the lights were switched on by 11-year-old competition winner Anastasia Kuksinova.

There was also mulled wine, food and hot chocolate stalls to enjoy.

Heidi Hopkinson, vice chairman of the organising committee, said: “This was all about the community, businesses and the committee coming together to put on a fabulous event.

“It had a really warm feel and we want to get bigger and better as well as keeping that community spirit.”