DOWNPOURS and inclement weather courtesy of Storm Bert did not deter hundreds of residents turning out to support Alcester’s annual Christmas lights switch-on.
The event on Saturday afternoon drew more than 300 people who gathered with brollies outside St Nicholas’ Church to watch five-year-old Sam and Amelie from 1st Alcester Squirrels jointly pull the big red lever.
A last minute change of plan saw the church doors swing open to accommodate Alcester Victoria Silver Band, members of the public and Court Leet officers, along with local councillors for a seasonal spot of carol singing before the countdown began.
Organiser Chris Newitt, chair of Alcester Bunting and Lighting, told the Standard they were not sure if they should cancel the event on account of weather but decided ‘it was worth going for’.
He said: “It was touch and go as to whether it should go ahead but it all worked out really well.
“We had a lot of positive comments from people about the atmosphere in the church and the lights.”
Chris added he was very grateful to Rev Katie Cross for hosting the carol singing at the last moment.
Alcester Bunting and Lighting is run by volunteers and, this year, has raised more than £2,500 to keep the town looking festive all year round.
All income goes to cover the cost of maintaining and installing both the Christmas lights and colourful bunting that festoons the town centre during summer months.
This year the group has extended the Christmas display with new lights down Butter Street and replaced the bulbs around the town hall with energy saving versions.
Following last Saturday’s switch-on, Alcester and Bidford Rotary provided mince pies and mulled wine in the town hall.
