Christmas has arrived in Melksham with festive lights, fundraising displays and community events across the town.
Thousands of residents filled the town centre for the annual Christmas fair and lights switch-on on Saturday 6th December. The lights, widely praised as the best in the county, were switched on by local girl Ciara Cottle, with the countdown led by the town’s digital talking Christmas tree.
Ciara, who has a heart condition, dilated cardiomyopathy, was due to switch on the lights last year but the event was cancelled due to Storm Darragh.
This year’s celebrations featured live music, dance performances, festive stalls, children’s activities and the chance to meet Mr and Mrs Claus in their grotto.
Paul Weymouth from Light Fantastic, who installs the lights with volunteers, said, “Thank you to Melksham and beyond for enjoying what we do and allowing us to keep up with our old strap line – ‘making Melksham a special place at Christmas.”
Mayor of Melksham Cllr Saffi Rabey said, “The atmosphere was electric, fantastic live music, bustling stalls both inside the Assembly Hall and outside, and plenty of delicious food for everyone to enjoy. The lights and fireworks were breathtaking and really brought the festive spirit to life.
“It was especially moving to have Ciara switch on the lights this year. After what happened last year, it was wonderful that she could return and share this special moment with the community.”
Sarum Avenue lights
Sarum Avenue has also drawn crowds with its fundraising Christmas lights, including what residents say is the UK’s largest illuminated Father Christmas sculpture. Homes along the street have been decorated to raise money for Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance, following last year’s £16,000 total.
Festive events
Other festive events have also taken place across Melksham and surrounding villages, including a community Christmas lunch for over 60 residents, Christmas concerts at local venues and churches, Christmas lights events in local villages, an Elf Trail, and Carols around the Tree organised by Melksham Town Council. Santa has been on a fundraising journey around the town with the Lions. Schools have held Christmas fairs and nativities, local care homes have hosted festive events, and churches have held special services for the community.
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