LET THERE BE LIGHT!

The countdown is on for Portishead Christmas lights switch on - Monday 24th November

After a year of checking stock, ordering new items, carrying out repairs, fundraising and extensive planning, this month volunteers in high visibility jackets will be climbing their ladders and scaffolding towers to ensure that Portishead once again has one of the best Christmas lights displays in the South West.

Organised by a group of volunteers, the lights are paid for by a grant from the town council, donations, sponsorship and fundraising activities.

This year’s switch on event will take place from 5.40pm in the High Street, close to Masterkey at The Precinct.

A whole host of VIPs guests will join TV, radio and podcast guru, Ian Downsy Downs, as he leads the countdown to the switch on alongside Santa and members of the carnival royal family. This will be followed by a firework finale at around 6.45pm.

Santa is expected to arrive at the Precinct, accompanied by his elves and helpers, at around 6.15pm, after being escorted through the High Street from Clarence House by the V-Dubs (VW's covered in 1000's of Christmas lights), local fire fighters, police and coastguards (depending on call-outs) and will be happy to take letters from children before and after the switch on. Parents and carers are asked to ensure the children include their name and address on any letters they have for Santa if they would like a reply as he and his elves try to reply to every single one.

The High Street from the Wyndham Way junction to Stoke Road, will be closed during the event.

Portishead Christmas Lights sign phototographed by Alan Harrison