Delph launches into Christmas

Refurbished Christmas windows delph

A Saddleworth village launched Christmas with a glorious flash, bang and judicial touch of wollop at the weekend.

Because, despite social distancing restrictions, The  Wake Up Delph group festive lights switch on and firework display went ahead with the lights turned on remotely.

Said the group’s Jo Walker: “Christmas spirit still remains high though we are very conscious of the current circumstances. However, third year residents enjoyed the firework display from the comfort of their own homes on the night.

“And the group have organised Santa’s helper, The Elf on the Shelf, to come down from The North Pole on December 9-10  to wander the streets of Delph in a socially distanced manner and spread some holiday spirit, giving small gifts to children and gathering feedback for Santa.

“Current restrictions and lockdowns make it so much harder to raise the necessary funds for the village to keep these events going.“ she explained.

“But the community spirit remains high and will continue to get us through. The Government can take everything away from us - but they won’t take away our Christmas Lights!”

And talented local artist Janet Iles added a touch of Victorian nostalgia to village lighting displays by refreshing a colourful tableau of bowed shop windows filled with enticing reminders of bygone days.

Said Janet from Diggle: “I designed and painted the original windows 13 years ago but I came back and spent three weeks refurbishing them. I’ve gone into lots of detail to ensure the items look as authentic as possible.

“The windows are now displayed opposite the White Lion and I hope they brighten and bring a lot of cheer over Christmas to everyone who sees them!”

In nearby Dobcross, the village square glowed with a galaxy of Christmas lights including an impressive display at the The Swan which is scheduled to reopen when restrictions allow.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.