Festive lights at the double

FESTIVE fun was had by Hathershaw and Fitton Hill residents during a double Christmas lights switch-on.

Residents wrapped up warm and headed to the Villages Housing Office in Fitton Hill where stilt-walkers and fire-eaters entertained the crowds.

Compere Jonny Spangles took to the stage with Thai boxing champion Andrew Lofthouse, Thai boxing master Kevin Lloyd and Father Christmas himself to switch on the seasonal lights.

A procession then led to the Honeywell Centre in Hathershaw for the second lot of Christmas lights.

The Dobcross Silver band played festive music and there was dancing from Polish and Indian performers, carols from Oldham Choral Society as well as a community pantomime.

Festive food, a Santa’s grotto, children’s entertainment and raffle rounded off the evening.
Gordon Roscoe, New Deal for Communities chief executive, said: “This is the fourth year of the event and it is our most entertaining and ambitious yet.”