MELKSHAM Lions’ iconic Father Christmas float has been given a new lease of life by two local businessmen.
The float, which has toured the streets of Melksham for 25 years, has been given a new audio system and new lighting, and Rudolph has a brand new nose to light the way for Father Christmas in the dark!
The work on the float has been carried out by two businesses, which go under the joint name of Event Technical Group, owned by well-known community figures, Alex Goodhind (KANConnections) and Paul Weymouth (LIGHTFantastic), who are behind much of Melksham’s Christmas attractions over the years, both in town and Longford Road.
Sadly, due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Lions’ float will not be visiting the town’s streets and supermarkets as normal this year. But some lucky children will be able to see the new float in action, as Father Christmas will be visiting some of Melksham’s primary schools in the coming days.
Alex and Paul told Melksham News, “The work the Lions do is fantastic at Christmas and we were keen to help make the float something special, so we donated our time and materials stripping the old lighting and audio system and replacing everything with up to date quality equipment, plus installing a dedicated battery system to keep everything running for even their longest days.
“Paul was vaguely involved 25 years ago when Ray Gibbons and Paul’s dad, Alan, made the two reindeers for the Lions, and 25 years on, Paul finally got to give Rudolph an illuminated red nose!
“With our busy commitments elsewhere Alex has made time to design and install everything to such a high standard, and we are delighted with the end result. We cant wait to see it travelling the streets as soon as that’s possible.”
On behalf of Melksham Lions, Simon White told Melksham News, “Many thanks to Alex and Paul for their donation, it’s very generous of them to give their time and resources to make over our float. I’m sure the children – and Father Christmas – will be excited to see what they have done!
“Sorry we can’t carry out our normal visits this year but we will be back next year when there will be a ‘new normal’,” said Simon.
However, the Lions are still raising money for charity this Christmas to support the local community and have set up a text donation number. The Lions said, “We would appreciate your help.”
Text Melkshamlions3 to 70085 to donate £3.
For more information about the Event Technical Group, which offers solutions for event power, lighting and audio, visit the website: www.eventtechnical.co.uk
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