IT WAS the return of the countdown – Woodley’s Christmas lights were once again switched on watched by hundreds packing out the Crockhamwell Road precinct, despite torrential rain.
The annual event, combined with a carol concert, acts as a curtain-raiser to next Sunday’s Winter Extravaganza, which will also take place in the town centre.
The switch-on took place on Saturday, November 23, and the winners of a contest to design posters advertising Woodley’s festive events were able to pull a giant lever that turned on the special illuminations.
As well as displays around the precinct, there is a giant Christmas tree, lit up with two sets of lights, one of which is organised by Woodley & Earley Lions as part of its Tree of Light initiative. Each bulb represents a loved one of a member of the local community.
The ceremony was launched by Woodley Town Mayor Cllr Kay Gilder, who gave as short speech, as did the Lions’ president, Paul Norman.
The carol singing was launched with a solo of Silent Night from a member of Reading Operatic Society. The group sang for the other carols, which were performed by members of Woodley Concert Band.
The festive tunes included O Come, All Ye Faithful, Away In A Manger and The First Nowell.
There were also moments for the musicians to lead solo items.
As ever, members of JAC (Just Around the Corner) served roasted chestnuts, and the Lions shared mince pies and mulled wine, courtesy of Waitrose and Lidl.
Town centre manager Brian Fennelly compered the event, while the Revd Sean Riordan from Emmanuel Church introduced each of the carols and gave a short Christmas message.
The Winter Extravaganza will take place on Sunday, December 1.
The event runs from 10am through to 3pm and feature the usual mixture of craft, trade and charity stalls will be running, and there will be a host of entertainment.
The main stage will feature Berzerk, Sainsbury Singers, Starlet Dance School, the Royal Castle Jazz Band, comedy jugglers, No Strings Attached, Waingels College students, Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow and the Rock Choir.
There will be street entertainment from Circus Scene and Borderline Morris.
Santa will arrive in style from 11.20am and sit in his grotto, while a new attraction will be a Rodeo Rudolph.
Entry is free.
