Thousands head to Malvern for Christmas lights (From Malvern Gazette)

Thousands head to Malvern for Christmas lights

6:08pm Saturday 28th November 2009

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FAMILIES flocked to the heart of Great Malvern this evening as star of Channel 5’s Milkshake! flicked the switch on the town’s Christmas lights.

Amy Thompson, appearing in Jack and the Beanstalk at Malvern Theatres this December, generated cheers of delight from the many youngsters who recognised her from the popular children’s show.

The lights switch-on was the culmination of a day of activities and entertainment dotted around Great Malvern, which included a petting zoo, dance performances, and live music courtesy of school bands and choirs.

Parents got the chance to get ahead with some present shopping at the numerous independent stalls in the grounds of the Priory.

Colourful stilt walkers led a Christmas procession up Church Street followed by a samba band, numerous dancers and children carrying illuminated lanterns.

Following behind were panto star Amy as well as Daisy the Cow - who managed to lumber up the steep steps to Belle Vue Island before the switch was finally flicked.

Chris Marks, owner of Iapetus Gallery and driving force behind this year’s Christmas celebrations, said the day had been a great success with thousands of people visiting.

“It’s been gradually building throughout the day. There were fears of rain and snow so it’s been fantastic. The lantern parade looks amazing again. There’s been a real Christmasy buzz about it.”

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