Oldham’s Christmas starts right here!
Reporter: DAWN MARSDEN
Date published: 16 November 2009
Photo: Pictures CHRIS SUNDERLAND
The town centre's all lit up for Christmas!
THOUSANDS of festive revellers packed the streets of Oldham town centre for the borough’s biggest ever Christmas lights switch on.
Star guest Angelina Ballerina pushed the button to illuminate the High Street following performances from the saucy Dreamgirls Dancers and Santa Claus.
Hosts Mark Llewellin and Jane Hodson kept more than 4,000 spectators entertained as a foam snow storm added to the festive feel.
The Mayor and Mayoress of Oldham, Councillors Jim McArdle and Kay Knox, greeted the crowd and a host of festive creatures, including reindeer, snowmen and owls, popped up to say hello.
A spectacular firework display over the spire of Oldham Parish Church could be seen for miles around to close the ceremony.
Two giant screens ensured no one missed out on the action and a selection of well known Oldhamers, including council leader Howard Sykes and Chief Supt Caroline Ball, had recorded messages of glad tidings which were played to the crowd.
The lights switch on follows Santa’s Reindeer Parade and Oldhamers can look forward to the Festive Village and ice rink from November 28.
The programme of events form Oldham’s biggest ever Christmas countdown in a bid to give shoppers young and old the best festive period possible.
