Loughborough gets into the festive spirit

Loughborough is shining brightly and ready for the festive season after thousands of people visited the town centre to watch the Christmas lights being switched on.

Crowds gathered for the annual event which saw a host of entertainment throughout the day before the town was lit up.

The lights were switched on by Evie-Grace Abbott, the winner of this year’s Light-up Loughborough Competition, run by the council and the Loughborough Echo. The youngster was chosen for being a caring and compassionate sister to her younger brother Freddy, who has some health issues.

Evie-Grace was joined on stage by the cast of this year’s pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk.

Sylvia Wright, head of leisure and culture at the Council said: “It was great to welcome so many people into the town centre to see this year’s light switch-on.

“It was also lovely to watch our deserving competition winner Evie-Grace switch on the lights.

“I’d like to thank all of the local artists and groups who performed on the stage throughout the day. I think everyone enjoyed the entertainment and I’d like to thank them all for coming along.”

Visitors enjoyed a variety of charity and crafts stalls in the morning. The Sock Gallery also hosted an arts and crafts fair in the Loughborough Town Hall.

Entertainment for the day started with performances from local artists and groups. the crowd were entertained with a big screen and live music from Kade Smith, former contestant on The Voice UK.

There was also a host of musical entertainment including performances by St Botolph's School Choir, Kieran Sutcliffe, Bright Lights Theatre School, Loughborough Schools Foundation Big Band and societies from Loughborough Students Union.

The Christmas programme is organised by Charnwood Borough Council in partnership with Love Loughborough.