The weather couldn’t dampen Ledbury’s Christmas spirit last weekend as the town’s festive lights were switched on.
A day of entertainment and activities last Sunday (November 26) built up to the lights themselves being switched on outside the historic Market House.
“I think it went very well,” said Ledbury mayor Helen I’Anson, who had the honour of switching on the lights.
“It was a rotten day weather-wise but we had about 40 stalls in the High Street and when it came to turning on the lights there were a lot of people.
“We had the brass band, the choir and Morris dancers providing entertainment on the day - it was really good.”
Acrobats and dancers also entertained the crowds, children were invited to meet Father Christmas and there were free craft activities taking place in St Katherine’s Hall throughout the afternoon.
As well as a craft market in the High Street, stalls formed a food court in St Katherine’s car park.
The festive fun continues throughout December in Ledbury.
Cllr I’Anson hosts the traditional Mayor’s Christmas coffee morning in the council offices on Friday, December 1.
All are welcome to attend the event, which takes place between 10.30am and 12pm.
There will be a number of civic guests in attendance, mince pies and mulled wine on offer and a raffle draw for the mayor’s chosen charities Megan Baker House and Close House.
Cllr I’Anson said Ledbury businesses had been so generous donating prizes that more raffles will need to be held.
“Businesses in the town are really good at getting behind things - I really am so grateful,” she said.
On the evening, Ledbury traders host their annual Late Night Opening Event from 6pm to 8pm with music, dance, stalls, food and all the shops sparkling.
Town centre shops are also taking part in Ledbury Poetry’s celebrations of John Masefield’s famous children’s book A Box of Delights.
Shops are creating window displays and Ledbury Poetry House will be open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (November 30, December 1 and 2).
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