Old Town Christmas Lights 2007 

Football stars get the festive season started

 

Wood Street was brimming with Christmas cheer last night, as the Old Town lights were switched on – in an event which visitors described as the best yet.

Entertainment included fire juggling, martial arts and a fantastic display from the Tanwood School of Dance, with the Swindon Male Choir echoing the traditional feel of the evening with carols galore.

After months of preparation, there was panic earlier in the week with Swindon Town Manager Paul Sturrock's hasty departure from the club, leaving organisers with nobody to pull the plunger on the lights.

But the improvised attendance of players Ady Williams, Christian Roberts and Barry Corr was very well received by fans, with the Mayor and Mayoress, and Town Crier Fred Ferris also taking to the stage.

 

Christmas Jingle: Tanwood School of Dance giving a festive performance for the crowds on Wood Street

And the best guest of all arrived after the plunger had been pushed, gliding in on his sleigh, much to the delight of children.

Richard Deacon, one of the organisers, said: “It's been a fantastic year, and it's so good to see everyone coming together to really celebrate this event with their families.

“I really hope this has been the best yet, and next year will hopefully be even more exciting.”