Winsford Christmas lights switch-on go off with a bang

Hundreds of people flocked to the Old High Street in Winsford on Friday, November 28, for the fourth annual Christmas Street Festival.

One of the many highlights was a lantern parade from the Winsford Cross Shopping Centre, featuring nearly 200 lanterns made by local primary school children.

The town's Christmas lights were then switched on by Town Mayor, Clr Gina Lewis, followed by a fireworks extravaganza.

Clr Lewis, said: “It was great. The new lights up Wharton Road are fantastic.

“There were lots and lots of people this year, more so than last year and the year before I believe.

“I think people are really starting to realise some of the things we have been trying to achieve of the last few years.”

Clr Lewis, along with junior mayor Megan Hamill, 10, and salt Queen Chelsee Fulham, 18, were also on hand to judge the entries for Winsford’s 'Best Dressed Shop window'.

British Hair Waves was crowned the champion, with the Winsford Veterinary Surgery runners-up.

“British Hair Waves' window really was a sight to behold. I’d like to give a special thank you to Megan and Chelsee who were a massive help.”

Father Christmas popped along on the St Luke's Hospice Bus and attendees were treated to tractor and trailer rides through the lights, which have now been extended to cover more than a mile.

Winsford musicians and students from the Mid Cheshire College and the E-Act Academy performed throughout the evening.

Street entertainers carol singers, a Christmas market and a funfair all added to the festive fun.

Town Clerk Alan Warburton, said: “This year’s event really was the biggest and best we’ve ever had. The weather was brilliant and everyone seemed to have a great time.

"The Old High Street was packed with people, which helped create a wonderful family atmosphere, and the Christmas lights look even better this year with more than a mile of fabulous illuminations running through the town."