It’s (nearly) Christmas!

Nicola White: date to switch on the town centre lights

OLDHAM’s Olympic medalist Nicola White will switch on Oldham’s Christmas Lights — with the help of a TV favourite.

The bronze medal-winning Olympic hockey star will press the button with Rastamouse on November 18 starting a sparkling firework display in the process.

Christmas characters and the television mouse will entertain youngsters throughout the day — one of many set to warm the festive cockles.

Santa will arrive early with his reindeer on November 10 and will parade through the town centre from 12.45pm at Clegg Street. He will be joined by the cast of the Coliseum Theatre’s pantomime, Cinderella, and marching bands. The panto opens on November 24 until January 12.

Father Christmas will then open his grotto in Spindles Shopping Centre.

Experience a wonderful walk-in snow globe during the free Fairytale Christmas Weekend, on December 1 and 2 — which features princesses and magical characters as well as live music.

The following weekend, take in the Winter Wonderland and skate on a synthetic ice rink or enjoy the brass bands.

Christmas turns the clock back for the Victorian Christmas Weekend on December 15 and 16.

Councillor Shoab Akhtar said: “I’m sure this outstanding programme of events has something for everyone.”

David Martin, chief executive of the Oldham Coliseum Theatre and a Town Centre Business Partnership member, added: “Today marks the countdown to Christmas in the town centre and we’re ready to get everyone feeling festive.”

Shoppers will be able to enjoy free parking for a maximum stay of up to three hours on Saturdays at all council-owned town centre car parks. Tommyfield Market Hall will be open on the last Sunday before Christmas.


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