Let there be light!

Swindon switches on for Christmas 2009

 

oh no she isn't, oh yes she is! Lorraine Chase

The town centre is gearing up for one of Swindon’s biggest annual events – the Christmas Lights Switch-On, taking place at Wharf Green on Thursday 19th November.

 

Already preparations are underway for a full-scale extravaganza, as the town centre management company, inSwindon, gears up for 2009’s festive celebrations, which are being run in association with the BBC Children In Need Appeal.

 

Star of stage and screen, actress Lorraine Chase, is this year’s guest of honour. Lorraine is starring in the pantomime Sleeping Beauty at The Wyvern Theatre this year, and will turning on the town centre’s lights dressed as her character, wicked fairy Carabosse.

 

Although it’s ‘lights up’ at around 7 pm, the evening kicks off with Pudsey Bear arriving on stage at Wharf Green, before Sandy Martin from BBC Radio Wiltshire and Kirsty Heber-Smith from SwindonWebTV provide a much-needed winter warm up for the crowd.

 

They will later be joined by David Wren, the Mayor of Swindon and Lorraine Chase.

 

> Christmas more info

 

A host of local celebrities and sports stars will also be at the event, including Danny Wilson, Manager of Swindon Town FC; as well as Robins’ goalkeeper David Lucas; speedway stars Leigh Adams and Alun Rossiter; and ice hockey player, Swindon Wildcat, Ryan Aldridge.

 

Local mascots Willie the Wildcat, Rockin’ Robin, Allie the Alligator, Willy the Wyvern and the Speedway Rhino will be joining their pal Pudsey on stage for some festive fireworks.

 

Santa Claus is also rumoured to be putting in an appearance…

 

A number of smaller events will also be happening throughout the town centre, including a fairground on the Old Post Office site.

 

The Lights Switch-On also marks the start of late night Christmas shopping.

 

Those driving to the town centre and arriving before 6 pm can park in Brunel West, Brunel North and Fleming Way multi-storey car parks for up to four hours, at a cost of £2.

 

However, those arriving after 6 pm will pay standard evening rates.

 

While the evening’s sure to go off without a hitch, Farnsby Street will be shut between 7 pm and 7:15 pm.

 

An alternative route will be signposted for the short duration.