AN ALL-NEW set of festive lights made their debut in Woodley town centre on Saturday, November 25, as Christmas was switched on.
The annual carol service took place in the Crockhamwell Road precinct and was packed with tradition as well as the new bulbs.
The event started with a greeting from Woodley town mayor Cllr Janet Sartorel, who thanked people for coming.
“We are lucky to have such a great community,” she said.
Town centre manager Brian Fennelly introduced a countdown for the light switch-on, which was performed by the winners of the annual poster competition for the winter extravaganza, which takes place on Sunday, December 3.
Owen Dobson (6), Amelia Ballard (10) and Woody Yang (9) lined up to pull the giant lever, lighting up the precinct with the new display.
Afterwards, Charis Luke sang O Holy Night, before members of the Sainsbury Singers and Woodley Concert Band led singing of carols including O Come, All Ye Faithful, Once In Royal David’s City, Hark, The Herald Angels Sing, and Away In A Manger.
Each piece was introduced by the Revd Claire Jones, one of the new vicars at Emmanuel Church in South Lake Crescent.
Refreshments at the event were served by JAC and Woodley and Earley Lions, who took donations on the night.
Now, the final preparations are being made for the Extravaganza, which runs in the town centre next weekend.
The event runs from 10am to 3pm, with stalls opening at 10am, then an official opening at 11am.
Entertainment will be from a variety of local groups including Steppin’ Out Stars of Tomorrow, a Bulgarian folk dance group, Olga and her Talented Dogs, the Glee Club, and a return for singer Charis Anne.
Santa and his sleigh will be near the Centre Stage. As in previous years, his reindeer will not be attending.
For more details, log on to: www.woodleytowncentre.co.uk
