Hundreds gather for Leamington lights switch-on and market

[dutchman]

Christmas spirit swept through Leamington town centre today ahead of the annual Christmas lights' switch-on.



Hundreds of town centre visitors took to The Parade as it was sealed off to traffic in order to make way for the yuletide festive market.

A firm fixture in the town’s Christmas calendar, it featured stalls selling food and Christmas gifts in the run up to the long-awaited switch-on.

Fairground rides also graced the road, along with a main stage from which dance and music entertained the crowds.

Acts to perform on the stage included choirs, dancers, singers and some of the cast from the Royal Spa Centre’s pantomime – Jack and the Beanstalk.

There was music and entertainment throughout the afternoon including a ‘Choir Idol Schools’ competition and a speech from the town’s mayor.

That was followed by Monty the Jester and Christmas Elf and dance performances from the Leamington and Warwick Academy Of Dance, Dance A La Plage and the Leamington and Warwick Academy Of Dance.

One-man band Thom Kirkpatrick then took to the stage followed by the Spa Centre panto cast.

Then the build up continued as Santa lead the countdown to the lights and the Tree of Light Ceremony outside the Town Hall.

The event concluded with the town’s Christmas lights display being switched on from the main stage.