More than 3,000 turnout for Grantham Christmas fayre and light switch-on
More than 3,000 people turned out for a Christmas light switch-on at the weekend.
Crowds turned out for hours of entertainment on Sunday (December 1) for Grantham’s Christmas fayre and light switch-on.
Visitors turned out to see groups taking over the stage including the Rock Choir, the Winter Princesses, Grantham School of Dancing and Ultra 90s.
South Kesteven District Council deputy leader Coun Paul Stokes (Ind) said: “It’s been many years since Grantham witnessed an event as impressive as this.
“There was so much to see and everyone who was there will be able to tell their family and friends what great time they had.
“We’ve had great feedback from the dozens of market stallholders, who were busy from the outset, and from shopkeepers in the town centre, many of whom took part in the popular gingerbread family trail.
“The logistics, planning and staffing by our colleagues at SKDC have been second to none and I would like to publicly thank everyone who contributed to this unmitigated success.”
On the day, there was also street entertainment including balloon modelling, Santa’s grotto, face painting, vintage fair rides and fire engines.
There was also a free Santa bus, provided by Centrebus, to transport people to the event.
Grantham town councillor ambassador Coun Charmaine Morgan (Dem Ind) welcomed the crowd and said: “Events like this remind us of what makes Grantham so special – a community that cherishes its rich history, values its people and looks forward to the future with open hearts and minds.
“It’s been a truly festive occasion, bringing us together as we mark the start of the Christmas season.”
Special guest Joanne Taylor, the recipient of the Judy Smith Lifetime Community Champion Award at the recent SK Community Awards, was invited to switch on the lights display.
She is a Grantham Community Connector for Shine Lincolnshire, and has established 10 diverse community groups, created accessible flashcards for vulnerable people and organises a family fun day.
Vice-chairman of SKDC, Coun Ian Selby (Ind) said: “I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has dedicated their time and effort to making this event possible, especially Lincolnshire Fire Aid for their unwavering support and provision of the infrastructure essential for today’s success.
“I would also like to mention the schools, community groups and charities whose contributions have brought so much joy and community spirit to the festivities.
“A big thank you as well must go to our market traders, the Showmen’s Guild and all the suppliers and performers who have made the event so special.”
Did you go to the Christmas light switch-on at the weekend? Let us know in the comments.
