It’s nearly time to start to Christmas season

Aylsham is getting ready to officially begin the festive season with the Christmas lights switch-on night.

The town centre will be transformed into a winter wonderland this Friday evening (November 28) with lots of Christmas fun for everyone to enjoy.

The evening gets under way at 5pm and visitors will be able to enjoy warming food and drink from the vendors in the Market Place while stalls selling a wide range of goods will be set up in the Town Hall and Red Lion Street.

The town centre lights will be switched on at 6pm and live music will be provided by the talented Vocalights choir.

Meanwhile, Father Christmas will be on duty in the Town Hall’s Green Room (access via The Loke) to welcome youngsters to his Santa’s Grotto. It will be open to children aged 12 and under from 6.15pm to 7.45pm.

Many shops and businesses will be open late as the town comes together to welcome the Christmas season in style.

Aylsham Town Council Office and Events Manager Donna Butcher said:  “It’s unbelievable that the Christmas lights switch-on has come around so quickly! We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to kick off the festive season.”

There will be road closures in Red Lion Street, Market Place, Bank Street and Penfold Street, and people are advised to check the Town Council’s website and social media feeds for further information.

There will be no bus service in the Market Place from 3pm and the nearest stop will be Norwich Road outside Tesco.
People are encouraged to walk where possible. Parking is available at Buttlands, Burgh Road and Bure Valley Railway. The railway car park will be locked at 10pm.

The Aylsham Parish Church Christmas Tree Festival also starts on Friday and runs until December 2.

SPARKLING: A scene from last year’s Christmas lights switch-on event. Picture: IAN GRAVENELL