WOODLEY got into the festive spirit after its Christmas lights were switched on by winners of the annual poster contest during a special carol concert.
Every year, Woodley Town Centre Management Initiative organises the competition, inviting local school children to create a poster to promote the light switch-on and the December 3 Winter Extravaganza.
This year’s winners, 10-year-old Areeba Nagra from Rivermead Primary School and five-year-old Kayden Husbands from Beechwood Primary School, were able to switch on the lights in Woodley’s shopping precinct on Saturday, November 25.
Areeba turned on the town’s lights, while Kayden pressed the button to light up the Woodley Lions’ tree of light, where bulbs can be sponsored in memory of a loved one.
The event was compered by the vicar of Emmanuel Church, the Revd Sean Riordan and saw Reading Operatic Society and Woodley Concert Band perform the carols.
Talented teenager Rhys Bailey, who attends Reddam House and is a member of Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow stage school, stunned audiences with his rendition of the The Snowman’s title song Walking In The Air.
Hundreds joined with carols, which included Away In A Manger, The Holly And The Ivy and We Three Kings of Orient Are.
Tim Dixon, the president of Woodley and Earley Lions, spoke about the Tree of Light, which allows residents to reflect on their memories and to help raise money for local charities by sponsoring a light on the Christmas Tree.
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Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr Jenny Cheng, thanked everyone for coming.
She added: “This is an exciting day in our calendar.”
Mr Riordan summed up the evening.
He said: “Thanks to all involved in making this happen, a blessing on you and your family this Christmas time.”
Jacques Lherbier, the Woodley Town Centre manager, encouraged people to come along to next Sunday’s Winter Extravaganza.
He said: “Next week’s celebration is the 21st and we look forward to seeing you there.”
As ever, mulled wine (provided by Lidl), mince pies (provided by Waitrose) and roasted chestnuts (cooked by Just Around The Corner) were provided for the many, many people attending.
For more on the Winter Extravaganza, visit Woodley Town Centre Management Initiative’s website
