Estimated 1,000 strong crowd turns out for a spectacular night as Wimblington switches on its Christmas lights

An estimated 1,000 people turned up to see Wimblington Christmas Lights Group’s Big Switch On Event. Now in its third year the group promised something big and it certainly was.

Cambs Times: A spectacular display - and a great village occasion - as Wimblington came together for the switching on of their Christmas lights. PHOTOS: Nevermore Photography A spectacular display - and a great village occasion - as Wimblington came together for the switching on of their Christmas lights. PHOTOS: Nevermore Photography (Image: Archant)

Addison Road was closed for fairground attractions, games and a market. A festive craft fayre was held inside the village hall and in the car park a big stage was erected for a night of fantastic entertainment.

Local DJ Simon Knight compered the entertainment on the main stage. It featured music from The Rocking Ukuleles of Ely, an entertaining magic show from JezO’s events and festive carols from the Wimblington Village Choir and Thomas Eaton School children.

Father Christmas arrived on his new sleigh (built by Paul Kendall) having toured the village the night before.

He then joined this year’s poster competition winner Ethan and runner-up’s Lucy and Abigail on stage for the countdown to switch on the village’s lights for 2017.

The lights group has raised thousands of pounds this year to add to the displays and for the switch-on event and were all overwhelmed by the many positive comments they received on social media. Comments included that “this event needs recognition for its ability to show how much a small village in the middle of the Fens can come together and celebrate this wonderful time of year” from local man Daryl Dickenson.

The group said they would like to thank Paul Kendall (Kendall Amusements), Pro Colour Coatings, Ransonmoor Windfarm, Chapel Cottage Plants, Tesco Bags of Help Scheme, Knowles Transport, Phillip Roberts, JezO’s Events and the Wimblington Village Community for all their support and donations which have made the lights and this event something for Wimblington to be proud of.