Washout! Christmas Lights switch-on marred by wet & windy weather
Dozens of people braved the cold and wet to see the switch-on of the Christmas lights on Thatcham’s Broadway this evening.
This annual event is traditionally popular with the town’s residents old and young alike with many hundreds flocking to the town centre to enjoy some early season Christmas cheer, buy some gifts and sample the fayre from the many stalls along the Broadway. This evening by contrast, there was little joy as those who ventured out quickly became rain-soaked as hapless catering vendors looked on in the hope that someone might at least buy a burger or a hot drink.
The usual array of gazebos and stalls offering everything, including gift ideas, Christmas decorations, toys and tombola prizes, was noticeable by its absence. Earlier in the day, Thatcham Town Council took the decision not to allow the traditional market to go ahead due to safety fears in light of the gale force winds that had been forecast. Vendors offering food from trailers and vans were open for business, but they saw little trade from the few members of the public who decided to brave the weather and attend.
Father Christmas was not deterred from coming and was still there to greet visitors.
Dawn Cropper from Thatcham Town Council said the Council had “scaled it down quite a lot” and there would not be stalls that have gazebos. She said: “There are gales of about 45 mph happening this evening and safety comes first and we have to do it, unfortunately. It’s such a shame.”
Thatcham Mayor, Cllr Petra Pemberton was as positive and enthusiastic as ever with no sign of dampened spirits as she addressed those who had gathered at the front of the stage.
She talked about the value of community and the importance of being together.
“They are the bonds that unite us all, whether it’s gathering at The Broadway to see the lights being switched on, singing carols together or simply checking in on a friend or neighbour. These things remind us that community is the greatest gift of all.”
The Mayor went on to say that this year she had seen countless examples of kindness and compassion with volunteers going above and beyond, with businesses and charities supporting one another and families helping those in need.
“For me, it is those moments that embody the true meaning of Christmas,” she added.
Cllr Pemberton closed by wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year on behalf of the Councillors and staff at Thatcham Town Council.
At 7:15pm, a countdown began as everyone waited in suspense for the Christmas lights to be switched on. The excitement was captured on this Thatcham Town Radio exclusive video below.
