Holt's Christmas lights switch-on hailed as a success

Around 3,000 people flocked into the centre of the north Norfolk town on Friday, November 18 for one of the county’s first annual lights switch-ons.

Jamie Perry, who leads a group of six volunteers which organises and runs the event, said he was thrilled with how it went. 

Mr Perry said: “We had a great evening. The weather turned in our favour and attendance was very good.”

Youngsters were able to pay a visit to Father Christmas in a grotto at the department store Bakers and Larners.

Visitors enjoyed festive food and drink from outdoor stalls, and the town’s chamber of trade, Love Holt, ran a stand, raising money for the community. 

A pantomime horse race provided plenty of thrills and a few laughs. The Sowerbys Gold Cup was won by a team from Bakers and Larners, who also came first in 2021.

Santa Claus himself made his way to the stage for a countdown, which was followed by plenty of oohs and ahhs when he pressed a button, and millions of tiny lightbulbs lit up, bathing the town in light.

A fireworks display followed. Two local bands, the Electro Lights and the Walks, added to the entertainment. 

The switch-on was previously held on a Wednesday, but moved to a Friday slot in 2021, which Mr Perry said allowed a “longer evening with more of a party atmosphere”.

A system of pre-booking parking spaces was used for the first time in an effort to make the event more accessible.

Volunteers from Holt Rugby Football Club managed a road closure and collected bucket donations, and Medler Haulage provided a trailer, which was used as a stage. 

Mr Perry added: “The whole idea of it is to put on something that’s free for the community.” 

Aylsham’s light switch-on will be on Friday (November 25) at 5pm. North Walsham’s event will take place on Saturday (November 26) with entertainment in the afternoon and the lights going on at 6pm.

Sheringham and Mundesley will have their light switch-ons on Sunday (November 27).