MELKSHAM’S Christmas Lights volunteers have been hailed as heroes after thrilling thousands with an unforgettable Christmas lights and fireworks display at the weekend.
Delayed by the completion of the Market Place redevelopment, the team of volunteers led by Paul Weymouth, had weeks, rather than months, to get the display ready for the expectant Melksham community, who have come to expect one of the best Christmas lights displays in Wiltshire.
Working around the clock in the run up to the big day, the volunteers did not fail to disappoint. “Brilliant! Gets better every year and the best around for miles. Well done,” said Dawn Edwards on the Sham Shoutouts Facebook page.
Jacqueline Cooper added, “Lights are brilliant, best in Wiltshire I am sure. Thank you to all the volunteers who I understand worked late into Friday night to get them finished.”
“Thank you to the volunteers involved, you have worked your magic again despite setbacks due to the market square make-over,” said Linda Jones. In agreement, Julie Cannings said, “The town looks amazing. Despite the Market Place setback, you have all done a fantastic job. Well done, you deserve a medal.”
Turning on the lights were Mayor, cllr Adrienne Westbrook; local girl Chloe Elms – picked as a surprise choice from the crowd on the day; and one of the Wiltshire Air Ambulance teddy bear mascots. About the spectacular show, cllr Westbrook said, “Amazing! Once again the Christmas lights volunteers have pulled out all the stops and given Melksham a show to remember, I was almost lost for words.
“The volunteer team that we have in Melksham is something that all towns in Wiltshire would like to have. We are so lucky to have them. What a difference they make to Christmas in Melksham! Despite all the difficulties we had with the completion of the Market Place, I have to say that it looks stunning. The extra room and space meant that thousands of people could safely enjoy the display.
“The huge numbers that turned up on the evening made me incredibly proud of this town. The Melksham community always turns out for events like this, whatever the weather. It is such a supportive community.”
Also on the day, crowds of people browsed stalls in the Assembly Hall and Market Place, while local choirs sang carols and Christmas songs.
There were fairground games for children, visits to Santa’s grotto in the Town Hall and live music from local group The Decibelles.
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