Llandrindod Wells' big Christmas light switch-on event
Christmas came to Llandrindod Wells on Saturday as the town’s big lights switch-on took place.
Scores of people watched the spectacle, which included a free children’s party at the Pavilion with a photo booth, jewellery making and crafts and soft bouncy castles.
260 children attended the party which also included Bertie’s Booth for families to have free commemorative photographs taken and they will also be placed on the town council’s Facebook page.
That was followed by a parade led by Santa and Llandrindod Wells town crier Jan Swindale through Middleton Street and then the lights switch-on at the bandstand.
Some youngsters wore sparkly fancy dress, glasses and headbands for the ‘Sparkle for Christmas’ event as they paraded from the bus station.
At the bandstand, Llandrindod Wells Silver Band played carols and there were new Christmas lights for everyone to enjoy.
When members of the parade arrived at the bandstand, Llandrindod Wells Mayor Councillor Marcia Morgan welcomed everyone and wished everyone a happy Christmas.
She said it had been a busy year for the town, as it had appeared on television on the Weatherman Walking series, a new park and nature area opened at Tremont, an unforgettable carnival day and a fantastic firework display.
The mayor thanked the band, the round table, the festival committee, Llandrindod Wells Town Council members who volunteered, volunteers for their help and everyone who turned out to support the event and make it such a massive success. She also congratulated Llandrindod Community Events who put on the Christmas-themed ‘Community Get-Together’.
Councillor Morgan then presented prizes to those who had won in the fancy dress.
The Bridson Family won first prize with their sparkly dog Jenson, while Lillie Sanders came second and Tegan Katzler was in third place.
The town mayor then started a countdown and pressed a golden button to unveil the town’s festive lights display.
Councillor Morgan said: “With one month of sleeps left until Santa comes, this really is a special time of year. I hope everyone gets a sprinkle of Christmas magic.”
Quoting Ada V Hendricks, Councillor Morgan said: “May you have the gladness of Christmas which is hope; The spirit of Christmas which is peace; The heart of Christmas which is love.”
Earlier in the day, Llandrindod Community Events organised a Christmas fayre will also take place on Saturday – after just 17 days’ notice
An event already planned for the day fell through at the last minute.
KDM Local, Lakeside Boathouse and the Metropole Hotel got together and after receiving lots of help they held a hugely successful event.
There were about 60 stalls, a mini food-court, choirs, blow-up decorations, characters such as Elsa, Olaf, Mickey Mouse and a visit from Santa, thanks to the Round Table.
Fuelled By Cake ran best Christmas jumper competitions, Pontin's Electricals sponsored a best decorated and best illuminated stall competitions and nearby establishments such as Arvon Ales, the Log Cabin, the Con Club and the Metropole were open and supported the event which took place on Temple Gardens, and within the Metropole Hotel.
Nicole Stevens ran a raffle with lots of donated prizes, raising money for Mid Powys Mind.
Now, there will be Carols on the Bandstand event on Friday, December 13 from 6pm until 7pm.
The council’s festive lighting committee will be hosting the event with the Bracken Trust Singers.
There will be mulled wine and mince pies and carol sheets will be available.
