Melksham lights bigger and better than anywhere else

MELKSHAM’S Christmas lights display, which gets bigger and brighter each year, has attracted accolades from a wide area, saying it is the best display for miles around. 

And unlike most other towns, the show is put on entirely by local volunteers.

Mayor of Melksham, cllr Chris Perry says that Melksham’s Christmas lights display are “the best in the area.” Cllr Petty said, “I’ve seen the lights in towns nearby and all I can say they do not compare to Melksham at all. There is such a festive glow in the town, they are undoubtedly the best for miles around.

“Year after year, the Christmas Lights Group, that is made up of volunteers, outdo themselves. I cannot thank them enough for their hard work and innovation.”

This year, Swindon’s town lights were switched on by former X-Factor finalist Jahmene Douglas. But local people say that even their display is poor in comparison to Melksham’s display.

Volunteers in Melksham work all year round to plan the next illuminations and during the months leading up to Christmas, the volunteers work in their own time in all winds and weathers to put the displays up – and then take them down again afterwards.

Local people took to social media websites Facebook and Twitter to show their appreciation of this year’s Christmas lights.

Local resident Tracy Gay said, “Great display and much admiration for the volunteers who take the time and trouble to make it great. Well done all of you.”

Lecia Watts added, “The lights look stunning, the fireworks were a lovely touch, and the snow had my 3 year old speechless, which is a rare treat! Thank you all so much.”

Alice Adcock from Melksham said, “A great display of lights once again, the voluntary team do a fantastic job year in and year out. It’s your passion to do it that makes them amazing! Great fireworks display. I am proud to live in Melksham.”

Martin Quadling from Swindon said, “I live in Swindon but come to Melksham every year to see the lights. It puts Swindon’s to shame.”

• What do you think of this year’s Christmas Lights? Email melksham news@btconnect.com