Trees donated by the Leconfield Estates, a sea of white lights and the smell of mulled wine and hot chestnuts combined to create a Winter wonderland at Petworth Christmas Lights switch-on. From midday to 8pm there was something for everyone. Dotted around the Market Square, in the High Street, up Lombard Street and in the Leconfield Hall were over 40 gift and craft stalls while many of the town’s independent businesses welcomed visitors.
There were festive window displays – live and static – to show Petworth at its creative best. Winners of the static window competition were Spriggs Florist in New Street (‘best dressed’), Red Card in High Street (‘most creative’) and Coco Cafe & Sugar Lounge (‘funniest’). Music was provided by schools and bands, choirs from neighbouring communities, Petworth Town Band, a steel band and singers from the Herbert Shiner. Younger visitors were kept amused with a host of activities ranging from the new attraction, the bouncy Snow Globe to Santa’s Grotto. Following the blessing of the Nativity outside St Mary’s Church, there was a live nativity with Mary, Joseph, shepherds and angels with lanterns, not forgetting the star of the show Mr Darcy the Donkey parading the streets of Petworth.
People were invited to sing along to carols, with Father Mark leading the singing from St Mary’s Choir, the Leconfield Singers and Petworth Town Band. The grand finale was the lighting up of the Christmas Tree by Lord Egremont and his two grand-children Esme and Edward. Chris Kemp, chairman of Petworth Town Council, which organises the event said: “It was a very special day thanks to the many volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes and for many months to make it happen. Our annual Christmas Lights Switch On brings all parts of the community together.” Have you checked out our new Christmas section yet?
It’s packed with ideas and tips to ensure you make the most out of the festive season. There’s recipes, suggestions for presents and everything from choosing your tree to recycling your packaging and paper.
Source: West Sussex Gazette