THERE was a great turnout for this year's Wellington Christmas Lights Switch-On last night (Saturday, December 3).

Beech Grove pupils Asha and Patrick were the lucky youngsters who were given the honour of turning the lights on and transforming Wellington town centre into a winter wonderland.

The magnificent town centre tree donated by the wonderful Langford Lakes was accompanied by the stage was kindly lent by Ken Coles.

The Wellington Majorettes led Father Christmas on his sleigh to his grotto in the the Wellington Weekly offices at 4pm and followed this with a fantastic performance in the town centre.

Churches Together launched the sheep spotting trail that is taking place in many of the towns shops until 22nd December.

The double decker Playbus was very popular and free courtesy of the Town Council for young children. Wellington Pantomime Groups Cast of Hercules sang songs from the show as well as several Christmas numbers. Reminiscence Learning’s Mascot Archie took the stage to explain what their work in the town.

Wellington One Team had a stand. The winner of the Wellington Christmas Shop Display Competition, Pepperpot were presented with their shield by Wellington Experience’s Terry Sanford and The Mayor and Mayoress of Wellington.

Bob House from the Street Pastors and PCSO Louise Fyne took to the stage to talk about their love of the town and the work being done in the community. Wellesley Park School Choir in festive dress sang several Christmas songs beautifully in the lead up to the Switch On.

Rev. Tim Pottage gave the Christmas Message marking the start of advent. 

The Town’s spectacular new lights were turned on by Patryk and Asha from Beech Grove School with the Mayor and Mayoress of Wellington, Cllr Gary James and Mrs Bee James.