Hundreds turn out for town’s big switch-on
Last updated 08:56, Friday, 28 November 2008
MORE than 400 people turned out to watch Brampton’s new Christmas display light up the town.
The official switch-on last Friday saw thousands of bulbs draped around the town’s Moot Hall, with a series of displays illuminating 24 lamp-posts.
The new lights cost £15,000 and were purchased this year after last year’s ageing display failed to dazzle.
Local businesses were also commended for their efforts in the annual Best Decorated Window competition.
The top shop was florists Daisy Chain, with The Gallery gift shop coming second and Adorn wedding shop taking third place.
The Cumberland News associate editor Anne Pickles switched on the lights, joined by parish council vice-chairman Keith Read-Bone. Anne said: “The kids are what it’s all about and they seemed to be enjoying it very much.
“Brampton is a town with a lot of pride and it’s really nice that they came out in their hundreds to mark the start of Christmas.”
Mr Read-Bone, vice-chairman of Brampton parish council, welcomed the crowds to the celebration.
He said: “It’s my great pleasure to welcome all our visitors and the special people of Brampton, and I’d like to thank the children for dressing up so wonderfully.”
Brampton Silver Band played festive music to mark the occasion and talented William Howard School pupil, Laura James, 17, sang a selection of Christmas classics.
Father Christmas was also on hand to entertain children and give out sweets.
