Towns to be turned into winter wonderlands for Christmas lights switch-ons
It may only be October – but organisers are already preparing to deck two towns with tinsel and lights for this year's Christmas lights switch-ons.
Events will take place in Market Drayton on November 19 and in Whitchurch on November 26.
They will see both towns turned into winter wonderlands in a bid to get residents into the festive spirit.
In Market Drayton the event will start at 10am and will see the lights switched on about 5pm.
It will also feature live music, fire eaters, magic acts and circus workshop.
Kate Harvey, assistant clerk at Market Drayton Town Council, said: "We are running the children's Christmas lights switch-on colouring competition. There will be a stall in Cheshire Street for children to enter. It will be 50p a go and all money raised will go to the mayor's charity.
"I am also organising the business shop front competition.
"I am, however, looking for more stalls. I would like it to be a real community event.
"I have got a lot of local groups taking part, I would just like more stalls.
"We have had a lot of support and kind donations for the Christmas event from local company's this year, it is much appreciated.
"We have had donations from the Muller, Hales Sawmills, PD Naggingtons, The Gingerbread Man and Plewes Brothers."
To enter the Christmas shop window competition email assistantclerk@marketdrayton.gov.uk.
The closing date for entries is December 14 and judging will take place on December 16.
Meanwhile, the lights will be switched on in Whitchurch by the town's citizen of the year at about 5pm on November 26 – as voted for by residents.
Zoe Dean, acting town clerk, said: "Leading up to the big switch-on is Whitchurch's beloved lantern parade which starts its magical journey from the market hall at 4.30pm.
"There are lots of activities going on in town throughout the switch-on event.
"The outdoor Christmas market starts the day off at 10am and runs straight through until 6pm with a variety of stalls as well as hot food.
"There will be children's fairground rides in the Bullring and Santa will be visiting on his sleigh.
"St John's Church fair is taking place in the civic centre's main hall from 10am.
"The independent shops in the town will also commence the season's late night shopping period."
Lantern workshops will be taking place in the lead up to the switch-on.
These will be held on November 5, from 12 noon to 6pm, on November 12 and 19, from 10am to 6pm. and on November 26, from 10am in preparation for the parade at 4.30pm.
